Dealing with a Nap-Refusing Toddler
What to do when your stubborn, overtired toddler refuses their day sleep
You may have tried to put your toddler to sleep, but they resisted with everything they had. Even the most patient parents can become frustrated by tantrums and protests. You’re not the only one who has experienced this. It’s no surprise that nap refusal is a common problem for parents as their children grow.
Often, the scenario is that your toddler runs around, plays, talks, or asks for one more snack. They’re clearly tired and need to rest but they protest every time you suggest a nap. Your child is now grumpy and whining as the clock strikes five o’clock. You’re trying to figure out how to make them sleep when they just want to play.
Why Is This Happening?
Toddlers love to explore and are active, curious little people. There’s so much to do and learn at this stage in their development. Even though napping is crucial to their development, it can be a frustrating interruption. There are so many things going on in their world that they don’t have time to nap. There are so many things to do for kids. They may be playing with a favorite toy or running around in the backyard.
Toddlerhood is a period of discovery for independence. Your child may be learning to make their own choices and will begin to assert themselves by refusing what you ask, especially if it is in conflict with their desires. They may refuse to take a nap because you asked them to.
Changes in their routine, environment, or emotional development may also cause nap resistance. These factors can cause them to lose their sense of security and become more resistant to sleeping.
How much sleep do toddlers need?
This can vary but in general, toddlers require between 10 to 14 hours per 24 hours. This sleep is a mixture of daytime naps and night sleep. A typical sleep schedule for a 2-year old might include 12 hours of night sleep plus a 1- to 2-hour nap in the afternoon. Every child is unique, so some toddlers will need more sleep than others depending on their temperament, activity level, and personal needs.
Two Naps or One?
Around the age of 18 months, many toddlers begin to transition from taking two naps per day to only one. As your toddler gets used to the new schedule, they may resist taking a nap. Some toddlers may find it difficult to give up their morning nap and instead opt for a longer afternoon nap. The change in schedule can cause a disruption to their daily routine. They may even resist taking naps more often as they adjust.
Nap Refusal: The Effects
Even though it may seem as if nap refusal is a minor inconvenience to your toddler, it could have a significant impact on their overall health. If your toddler doesn’t nap, it can cause them to become tired, leading to mood swings and behavioral problems.
Overtiredness may cause your toddler’s behavior to be difficult to control, such as being irritable or defiant. You may see your child become easily upset, have tantrums or need more attention. Not only are these behaviors stressful for parents, but they also impact their development. Toddlers need sleep to recharge their bodies and minds, as well as process information and grow.
Behaviour and Sleep
Sleep deprivation can affect our moods and energy levels. Sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on toddlers. They can have difficulty regulating their emotions, concentrating, or displaying appropriate behavior if they don’t get enough sleep. Unfortunately, toddlers do not have a sleep switch that they can use to easily fall asleep. Transitioning from wakefulness into sleep requires comfort and relaxation. If your toddler is anxious, overstimulated or tired, it may be difficult for them to settle down.
How to solve Nap Refusal
Consistency and patience are the keys to dealing with nap refusal. There are many strategies to help make naptime less of a struggle and more peaceful. Here are a few ideas that you can try.
1. Wear Them Out
Ensure your toddler is getting enough physical activity throughout the day to promote naptime. Like adults, toddlers will feel more tired and be ready to sleep when they have expended some energy. Plan an outdoor activity, a visit to the park or a game that requires physical movement. It will tire them so that they’re more likely to sleep when it comes time for a nap.
Try to do something active before naptime if you are worried that your child will fall asleep in the car. For example, take a walk around your neighborhood. This will burn some energy, and prepare your child for sleep.
2. Nap Times can be adjusted
Your toddler may refuse to nap if it is either too early or late. Overtired children can have a hard time settling down for a nap. It’s best to put your toddler down as soon as you notice signs of sleepiness. If they are not yet tired enough, you may want to move the nap time back 15-30 minutes.
You may need to change the timing of your toddler’s afternoon nap if they have already stopped their morning nap. This will allow them to rest before they become overtired.
3. Maintain a Consistent Nap Time
Nap time is also a routine that toddlers love. Your child will learn to expect a regular nap schedule if you stick to it. This predictability can also help your child relax into sleep. Set a nap time each day, and keep it consistent even at weekends. Consistency helps your toddler get used to napping.
4. Relaxation is important for a healthy environment
The environment in which your toddler naps can have a significant impact on their ability to fall asleep. Make sure that the room is dark, cool and quiet. Blackout curtains can be used to block excess light if the room is too bright. White noise machines can help to drown out background noises that may be distracting.
Ensure that your child’s sleeping space is also comfortable. Allow them to bring a blanket or stuffed toy to naptime to add comfort. These small comforts will help them relax and feel secure.
5. Be Consistent and Firm
It can be tempting for you to cave in to your child’s demands, but staying firm is the key. You must establish that naps are non-negotiable. It doesn’t have to be harsh, just clear and consistent. Even if your toddler is upset, let them know it’s nap time. Reassure your toddler that naptime is just a time to rest and you will be back in a few minutes to check on him or her. If your toddler cries or protests, reassure them that it’s just nap time and you will be back soon to check on them.
6. Offer Quiet Time Instead
It’s fine to give your toddler some quiet time if they refuse to nap, despite all your efforts. You could offer them some quiet toys, books or calm music in their bedroom. Even though they may not sleep, quiet time will help them recharge and rest. It will also give you some much-needed respite.
Still Won’t Nap?
Even if you’re consistent and patient, sometimes your toddler will simply refuse to nap. It’s not unusual, and you aren’t doing anything wrong. Consider giving your toddler some quiet time if they consistently refuse to nap. It may help them relax and some children will fall asleep when they are not trying to.
If your toddler is consistently overtired or their refusal to nap affects their mood and behavior, you may want to consult your pediatrician.
Nap Refusal: Other Factors
Other factors can also contribute to the refusal of a toddler to nap. Here are some possible causes:
1. It’s not relaxing to go to bed.
Your toddler might carry the stress or rushing of bedtime into naptime. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes activities such as a warm bath or reading a book. You can also listen to soothing music. If your toddler feels rushed or overstimulated just before naptime, they might have trouble unwinding and going to sleep.
2. Transitions or Big Changes
Toddlers undergo many changes. Moving from a crib into a bed, learning to potty train, or adapting to a new child can be stressful, and disturb their sleep patterns. It may take a while for your child to adjust if they are going through a major change. As they go through these transitions, be patient and understanding.
3. Fear of separation or nightmares
If this is the case, try using a comforting object like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel secure at night. Try using a stuffed animal or blanket that they love to make them feel safe at night. A nightlight can also ease their fear of the dark.
How to help your toddler sleep
You can help your child develop better sleeping habits by taking steps to encourage napping. Here are a few strategies that may help:
- Create a consistent naptime and bedtime. A predictable schedule will help toddlers learn when to go to sleep.
- Relax before bedtime: Read, play gently, or listen to soft music.
Resting is a good way to signal your body that it’s time for a break.
- Limit screen-time: Screens interfere with the production melatonin and make it difficult for your child’s to fall asleep. Avoid screens for an hour before bedtime or nap time.
- Provide comfort : A favorite toy, a blanket or soft blanket can all help your toddler transition from playtime into sleep.
Conclusion
It is temporary, but many parents struggle with this issue. Remember that while it may seem like a never-ending battle, your child’s refusal to nap is not an indication of how you parent. You can help your child get the sleep they need by creating a relaxing environment and following a consistent routine. Finding the perfect balance between napping and going to bed will take some trial-and-error. It’s important to be flexible and willing to adjust as your child changes.
It’s normal to experience a few off days. Nap time can also be challenging. When your toddler is fighting sleep more than usual, remember that you are doing the best that you can. This phase will pass. Give yourself permission to trust the process, and let go of perfectionism. You and your child will work together to navigate the bumps on the road to peaceful naps.
Take care of yourself in the meantime. You deserve to rest, too. Parenting can be exhausting. Don’t get too caught up worrying about your child’s sleeping habits. Your well-being is just as important. Take time for yourself, whether that’s quiet time, a relaxing bath, or a cup coffee. You will be able to approach naptime with greater patience and understanding if you recharge yourself.
