Focus on Better Behavior

When your child gets to about the age of 2.5 or 3 nap time can be disrupted and sometimes they may have days when they don’t nap at all. This can be frustrating especially when you know that they still need a nap in the middle of the day. To give yourself a break and let them get some down time try encouraging “quiet time”. Instead of saying “nap time” prepare your child for having some “quiet time”. Let them know that they don’t have to sleep, but they need to remain in their room and read or play quietly until you come get them. If they come out, quietly take their hand and lead them back to their room and shut the door. It might be helpful to have a digital clock in the room so you can let them know when quiet time is over. This is good training for them to get used to the idea of some relaxation time and they may even fall asleep after being in there for a while. This will help you get a much needed break but also allow them time to recharge and settle down for a bit.