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Overcoming Nap Resistance
My 3 yo doesn't like to take naps, but needs one daily or else he can't control is behavior. Although he's yawning and rubbing his eyes, he resists sleep. I would love to find something that would encourage him to just go to sleep. Any suggestions?
3 Replies
This is the age when they start to transition out of naps, the desire to be independent kicks in and although they truely need some time in Snoozeville they get really good at fighting it off. I would take a trip to the library, grab some good picture books and start a solid routine, predicability, when after lunch and some play, he goes into his room for "Chill Out Time with Books" Have a talk that this is what big kids do when they don't want to "sleep" any more but teach him that everybody needs this special chill out time.
Good luck!
CalmBabyRN | October 18, 2008 | reply
When my 4yo daughter was 2.5/3 yo, she resisted naps. A dear friend suggested putting on a movie, turning the sound down low enough that my daughter would have to be still to hear, and letting her lay on the floor or couch with all her lovies and blankets. This worked like a charm! She was usually asleep before the middle of the movie. I think she responded to the fact that I wasn't forcing her to be in her room alone. Hope this helps.
Tana | October 7, 2008 | reply
Thanks for the response, but my son won't sleep when movies are on. He focuses very intently on them and memorizes them, so it's not a relaxing activity for him. He also doesn't fall asleep while driving. If it weren't so apparent when he doesn't nap how much he really does need them, I'd let him stay up, but that's not good for either one of us!
kelly913 | October 7, 2008 | reply
