A successful preschool nap time is a crucial part of a child's healthy development, allowing them to rest and recharge for the remainder of the day. Creating a calm, consistent routine is the key to helping children get the rest they need, but it can often be a challenge for educators.
Nap time is an essential daily routine in any childcare program. It helps children recharge so they are ready to learn and play. However, getting a group of young children to settle down can be difficult. Some may be too excited to relax, while others might struggle with the transition from active play.
This article provides 18 practical tips to make your preschool nap time run more smoothly. You will find helpful strategies for both nappers and non-nappers, along with advice on creating a peaceful rest environment for every child in your care.
Why is nap time important for preschoolers?
Nap time is vital for a child's growth, development, and overall physical and mental health. Daytime naps supplement nighttime sleep, helping children get the recommended amount of rest they need to learn and play. Naps also help reduce stress, improve mood, increase alertness, and boost cognitive function.
Many state licensing agencies also have requirements for daily rest periods. For example, California requires childcare centers to provide children with an opportunity to nap or rest without distraction. This can be a nap or a quiet activity like reading. This regulation ensures children get the rest they need to thrive.
Check your state's licensing regulations to see if there is a required rest period in your area. If not, consider implementing one to ensure your preschoolers experience the benefits of a good nap.
How long should nap time be in preschool?
The ideal length for preschool nap time is between one and two hours, although this can vary based on a child's age and how much sleep they got the night before. It is also normal for some children not to sleep during this period.
Here are general guidelines for nap duration based on age:
- Infants: Newborns sleep most of the day, waking every few hours to eat. By four months old, they typically take two to three naps per day.
- Toddlers: Most toddlers take one or two naps daily, with each lasting one to two hours.
- Preschoolers: Preschoolers generally take one nap per day lasting one to two hours. Some may no longer need a nap at all but will still benefit from quiet rest time.
With brightwheel's daily report feature, your teachers can quickly log nap times, meals, and learning milestones directly from the app. This centralizes documentation and makes it easy to share updates with families.
Safe Sleep Checklist
A free checklist to create a safe sleep environment for infants at your childcare program.
15 nap time tips for preschoolers
Getting young children to nap can be challenging. Even if some children aren't sleepy, these strategies can encourage a smooth transition to a quiet, restful period for everyone.
1. Stick to a schedule
Put children down for naps at the same time each day. A consistent daily schedule helps children know what to expect and provides a sense of security.
2. Create a calm environment
Make the room quiet and dark to signal that it's time to sleep. A white noise machine can help muffle outside sounds.
3. Use comfortable bedding
A comfortable surface like a nap mat or toddler cot can help children relax and fall asleep more easily.
4. Provide personal blankets
Allowing each child to have their own pillow and blanket can help them feel more secure. Ensure they are soft and not too bulky.
5. Encourage a bathroom break
Make a trip to the bathroom part of your pre-nap routine to prevent disruptions during rest time.
6. Read a quiet story
Reading a calm story helps children transition from active play to rest. Choose a book that won't get them too excited.
7. Offer a comfort item
A stuffed animal or other soft toy can provide comfort and security for a child.
8. Play calming music
Soft, soothing music or lullabies can help children relax. You can find many options on streaming services.
9. Position for comfort
Encourage children to lie on their backs with their arms at their sides, as this position can help them relax.
10. Provide reassurance
Some children feel anxious at nap time. A comforting hug, a pat on the back, or simply sitting beside them can make a big difference.
11. Use a soothing voice
Speak in a calm, quiet voice to signal that it's time to wind down, not time to be alert.
12. Try deep breathing
Practice simple deep breathing exercises with the children. Inhaling deeply, holding for a moment, and exhaling slowly can calm the mind and body.
13. Wake children up consistently
Waking children up around the same time each day helps regulate their sleep schedule. Give them a few minutes to wake up fully before starting afternoon activities.
14. Have a snack ready
A light snack and a drink can help children re-energize after their nap.
15. Get them moving
If children are still groggy after their nap, encourage gentle stretches or a short walk around the room to help them wake up.
3 nap time tips for non-nappers
If a child consistently doesn't sleep during nap time, you can still help them get the rest they need with these quiet time tips.
1. Designate a quiet time
Instead of forcing a nap, create a designated "quiet time." Offer calm activities like reading, coloring, or listening to soft music with headphones.
2. Let them choose an activity
Giving children a choice of quiet activities helps them feel more in control. You can suggest a few options if they need help deciding. Set a timer so they know when quiet time will end.
3. Offer a refreshing snack
After their quiet time, offer a small snack and drink to help them recharge and feel ready for afternoon activities.
Rest is important for every child's health and well-being, whether they nap or not. By implementing these tips, you can ensure every child in your program gets the most out of their daily rest period.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What should I do if a preschooler refuses to nap?
If a preschooler refuses to nap, provide them with a quiet activity to do on their mat, such as looking at a picture book or completing a simple puzzle. The goal is to ensure they are still resting, even if they are not sleeping.
Can too much light affect preschool nap time?
Yes, a bright room can make it difficult for children to fall asleep. Using blackout curtains or dimming the lights can signal to a child's brain that it is time to rest, making it easier for them to settle down.
Is it okay for preschoolers to stop napping?
Yes, it is normal for some preschoolers, typically around ages 4 or 5, to outgrow their daily nap. However, they still benefit from a structured quiet time to rest their minds and bodies during the day.
Conclusion
Preschool nap time allows children to wind down and recharge for afternoon activities. Whether your child is a napper or not, rest is important for their overall health and well-being. Implementing some (or all) of these tips will help ensure that your children get the most out of nap time.
