How to Get Toddlers to Nap
Getting little ones to take a nap not only helps to refresh them, providing more rest throughout the day, but helps to keep them on a good sleep cycle to make it through to the end of the night. When you need to convince your little guy that it's nap time, create a time and be consistent. Once you've gotten his body used to taking a nap on a daily basis, he'll be less likely to fight you and will know that it's a part of his daily routine.
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Instructions
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Know when it's the best time to put your little one down for a nap. Learn his special signs that he needs to be recharged, such as yawning or crankiness. Try to make the time in the middle of the day when you know he'll be able to get a nap at the same time daily, not just on the weekends or when you're home on a special occasion.
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Create a schedule. Set your clock to remind you each day when it's time to put your toddler down for a nap. Give yourself a while to get this time adjusted to and then set in stone, but try to continuously start the process at the same time each day.
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Be consistent. Give your little one a consistent time and place to nap during the adjusting period. Practice the same preparation routine, such as reading a book, singing a song or simply rocking him in your arms. Give yourself enough time before the desired nap time to wind him down, especially if he's just been active.
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Provide a quiet, dark environment. Give your toddler a private place to nap where the entire duration of his nap will be undisturbed. Get rid of distractions, such as noisy music, the television or other kids playing. Try to give him the same spot where he goes to bed at night if you're home, or at least an environment that mimics his own space -- no matter if it's with a pillow and blanket or a small night light. Try to give him an area where he will sleep comfortably.
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Be patient. No matter if it's day one or year one of his napping process, know that his little, developing body is subject to change, and he may need you to continue to follow through all of the steps over and over again before he gets it right. Give him the time he needs to fiddle and get adjusted before he knocks out. Be patient until his little eyes are closed, and he falls into a comfortable state of rest.
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References
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