My kids (Obi-1 is nearly 4, Obi-2 is edging near 2 1/2) nap daily. I have many friends whose children "gave up" napping before these ages, and most of Obi-1's friends are through with mid-day naps. However, my kids really do need their naps. They can endure the afternoon without rest, but by early evening everyone is falling apart. I find that a mid-day rest improves their energy and attitudes, which definitely helps improve my energy and attitude!
This is all to say that Obi-1 seems to be slowly ending his daily nap habit. He probably no longer needs as much sleep, and about once or twice a week, he'll skip it. There's no real warning that today will be the day, but once in a while he just doesn't fall asleep at naptime. Those days can be really frustrating, because he sometimes keeps his brother awake while he should be drifting into dreamland. Since I still think it's healthy for him to have a break mid-day, even if it doesn't include sleep, I had to get creative.
I've implemented an easy routine that extends naptime at our house. First, we follow the normal routine for naps every day. Some of our ideas include making quiet and telling about the listening rock. Everyone must remain quiet and in bed, so anyone who wants to sleep can do so. Before leaving the room, I tell Obi-1 when "rest time" will be over. He has learned to read a digital clock, so I simply need to have one available for him to see clearly. He waits for that time, and then is free to get up and come downstairs. Usually, the two of us can enjoy some quiet reading together while we wait for his brother to get up.
Giving everyone in the house a bit of downtime? Works for me.
p.s. Shannon has links to over a hundred other great ideas. Check it out and enjoy your Wednesday!
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