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Schools

Goddard School Discusses Naptime Importance

Oakville parents provide tips they use when toddler naptime is looming.

Your toddler shows all the signs that he or she is exhausted and in dire need of a good old-fashioned nap. He or she is yawning, whining, rubbing his or her heavy eyelids and twirling his or her hair. But, at the mere mention of a nap, he or she just may melt down. The explanation is truly a simple one: Toddlers do not want to miss out on even one moment of adventure, as they are beginning to understand that they can assert their own independence as often as they like to manipulate the world around them.

The solution is not necessarily as straightforward. Here are a few tips a few Oakville parents use for a more successful nap (or at least quiet) time:

  • The Waterkotte Family plans a quieter activity before nap time, as it begins to allow for a winding down period.
  • The teachers at make the transition to nap time consistent each day: potty time, read a book, cuddle up with a lovey or special blanket with soft music in the background.
  • The Burr Family reminds you to never make nap time a punishment.
  • The Smith Family provides a restful place for nap time. (Consider: darkening blinds, heavy curtains, calming music, a fan or white noise machine)
  • The Reed Family makes sure their daughter’s naps are in Isla’s bed or crib. This will help her associate her own bed with sleep.
  • If he absolutely refuses to nap, the Anderson family will leave their son with some toys and books in his bed and tell him it's quiet time.
  • The Gestes family keeps it short and sweet!  They give their kids a hug and a kiss, tuck them in and leave the room.

Remember, sleep is very important for a growing child. If your child repeatedly gets up after you have tucked him or her in, calmly take his or her hand and return him or her to his or her bed. Walk him or her back to bed each time, and he or she will soon realize that you are serious. If he or she still seems to have difficulty napping, let him or her know it's OK to stay awake, but he or she needs to use this time as “quiet time.” Be calm—but firm—about this resting period. Children (and parents, too!) need rest, even if they are not sleeping.

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