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Boys Town Pediatrics Offers Tips For Handling a Toddler Who Won't Nap
Every parent knows how a missed naptime can wreak havoc on an otherwise perfectly good day. And, every toddler has tested his parents' resolve by refusing to go down for a nap.
Naptime can be the most frustrating time of the day for parents, causing many to prematurely decide to stop the daily nap routine. However, a mid-day rest is one way to prevent late afternoon meltdown and provides parents with a break as well. |
Don't let naptime become a battle at your house. When your child refuses to nap, Boys Town Pediatrics offers these helpful tips:
- Put her down right after lunch. This is a good time for napping - any later and she will probably have a hard time going to sleep at bedtime.
- Set a firm rule that he must stay in his room during naptime. About 60 to 90 minutes is a fair amount of time to expect a toddler to sleep or at least rest while in his room. Return him to his room right away if he comes out before the set time. If he comes out again, close the door for a short time.
- If your toddler is at home with you during the day do not let her sleep someplace different than she sleeps at night. Allowing her to sleep in your bed or on the couch will only cause difficulties at bedtime.
- Do not give in and lay down with your child until he falls asleep. This starts a bad habit that will make bedtime frustrating as well.
- Do not let your frustrations show when naptime becomes a battle. Your reaction will only give your toddler incentive to continue refusing to nap.
If your toddler still refuses to nap, provide a few books or quiet toys and insist on a set quiet time in his room each day. At least this will help your child to feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the remainder of the day. |
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