How to Get Your Twins to Actually Take a Nap

When my twins began to climb out of their cribs right before they turned two years old, my Mom thought is was time to dismantle their cribs and have our twins sleep on our queen sized bed. So, since November 2007, my twins have been sleeping on our queen sized bed, minus the box spring, on the carpet in their bedroom. Since January 2008, my husband and I have been sleeping with our twins either at nap time or bedtime. Because I am with my twins in the afternoon, the nap time sleeping with my twins defaulted to me, Mommy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Twin A
• Twin B
• Mommy or Daddy
• Bed on floor
• A dark or semi dark room
• Classical music

Getting Your Twins To Take An Afternoon Nap

1. This is somewhat a simple task. When it is time for their nap, and two year olds more likely than not will only get one nap a day, Mommy or Daddy, will have to corral your toddler twins into their room.
2. It will take you some time to get your toddler twins to actually make their way to the bed. If you have patience, good for you. Sometimes, your toddler twins will think it is playtime and jump up and down on the bed. This is when you tell them to lay down and put their heads on their pillow. That is if your toddlers use pillows.
3. Usually a daytime nap or sleep time is easier for your toddler twins. Making your children take a nap can be a daunting task, but when they wake up, they will have more energy and a better disposition...you hope. When you sleep next to your toddler twins, they feel safe and secure. Just knowing you are next to them puts them at ease. Remember this and they should fall asleep at a faster rate.
4. Classical music or soft jazz music at the lowest sound level can really help your toddler twins fall asleep faster. This is the method I use to get my toddler twins asleep for an hour or two.
   
   When they wake up, they are ready to take a walk around my neighborhood, play in our backyard or watch their favorite DVDs.
   
   Here is what my twins and Mommy look like when we are taking our afternoon nap with classical music playing and the blinds closed.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if your toddlers refuse to sleep, do not let your toddlers win. You are Mommy or Daddy and you know their nap is vital to their growth and development.
• Your toddlers will not miss out on anything; tell them that too.
• Your toddlers will take a nap with you sleeping next to them--that is, if you are a stay at home Mommy
• Never give into your toddler about nap time.