GET YOUR 2 YEAR OLD TO NAP!

Even the best of sleepers often begin protesting nap time around this age. Here are my tips for preserving nap time a bit longer! Cuz heaven knows our sanity depends on it!

*Don't underestimate the power of physical activity. Getting outside in the late morning for rigorous activity is really important! Or do something active indoors if weather is not permitting.

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*Have a great routine. In our house we do lunch at noon and then get cleaned up from lunch, change diaper, get a drink, sing our song, kisses, and light's out.

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*Light's out means that the room should be 100% dark! Don't underestimate this either! Get black out coverings or good blinds with good black out curtains on top. I can't stress it enough.

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*Avoid screens. I know lots of families that like to turn on a show in the morning but just don't let it stay on all day. Get it shut off a couple hours before nap time.

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*Don't give up! Consistently put your child down for that nap and even if they don't fall asleep then they've at least had an hour of "rest time" in the afternoon. If they refuse the nap, you can always move bedtime an hour earlier. There is a good chance your toddler will begin napping again soon if you keep offering it.

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Naps are typically dropped between ages 3-5 yrs but there are some exceptions.

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If your toddler still depends on a sleep prop or crutch to fall asleep such as a pacifier or a bottle or your presence then this may be your issue and that's a whole other matter! Contact me if you want to chat about your kiddo learning some independent sleep skills!