A Note on Naps
Most preschoolers do still need naps during the day. They tend to be very active — running around,
playing, going to school, and exploring their surroundings — so it’s a good idea to give them a special opportunity to slow down. Even if your child can’t fall asleep, try to set aside some quiet time during the day for relaxing. (And you’ll probably benefit from a break too!) The best way to encourage napping is to set up a routine for your child, just as you do for bedtime. Your preschooler, not wanting to miss out on any of the action, may resist a nap, but it’s important to keep the routine firm and consistent. Explain that this is quiet time and that you want your child to start out in bed, but that it’s OK to play in the bedroom quietly if he or she can’t sleep. How long should naps last? For however long you feel your preschooler needs to get some rest. Usually, about an hour is sufficient. But there will be times when your child has been going full tilt and will need a longer nap, and others when you hear your child chattering away, playing through the entire naptime.