Nap Time Strategies

You want to have a nap time strategy. Yes, a strategy. It may sound a bit harsh or even difficult, but truly it isn't. It is like with many other areas of life if you don't take charge and plan for it, it will pass you by.

If you’re the parent of a little one then you have had your fair share of dealing with naps, or the lack thereof. Nap time is an important part of any young child’s day, therefore it is important to get a handle on this napping thing as a parent.

You want to have a nap time strategy. Yes, a strategy. It may sound a bit harsh or even difficult, but truly it isn’t. It is like with many other areas of life if you don’t take charge and plan for it, it will pass you by. Don’t let the quiet time of nap time pass you by because you weren’t able to gain control of your children or their nap time.

There are a few of things that are important for a child in order to ensure that they have a good nap time. These include:

Location – There is something to be said about having a nap time location. If you noticed if your child is “out of their element” or “out of their routine” then they won’t be as likely to nap. Having a specific location where your child naps daily is important. You may choose to have your child nap in their bed or crib so that they associate that place with sleep. Either way determine a location and stick to it.

Time – Another important thing to set for you child’s nap time is an actual time. This helps your child to get into a routine and to learn that each day around that time they will go down for a nap. They will get used to it and it will make it easier for the both of you.

Lovey or attachment item – My children have enjoyed having a consistent lovie for their naps. This can be a Taggie, special animal, blanket or nap mat blanket/pillow. They feel secure when their special items are there with them for nap. My daughter calls her animal a sleep buddy.

Travel and Nap – When traveling with your children, it is important to keep the nap routine as much as possible. This will help them feel more secure. If your child goes to day care or preschool for naps discuss with their teacher what the routine there is for nap. I recommend a nap mat with blanket and pillow for these situations.

Though there are probably other factors that will come into play with your child’s nap time, these four are the essentials and should be mastered first in ordered to ensure a proper nap time and some peace and quiet for everyone.