Children’s sleep pattern evolves greatly with age. They start a nap several times a day when they are baby. They gradually decrease their naps and eventually no longer nap. This does not reduce sleep, but indicates that the child’s brain and body are mature. The question that many parents ask is when the children stop taking a nap?
According to one study94 % of children gave up a nap by the age of 5。 Discuss the signs that your child may be ready to give up. Let’s read!
Seven signs are ready for your child to stop taking a nap
When will the kids take a nap? There is no clear time for that. Most children stop naps regularly between the ages of 2-5. However, the age when a child stops taking a nap is very different. tThe following is a way to know when this should happen. You need to pay attention to the following factors:
1. It is difficult to fall asleep during a nap
Will your child play or chat instead of sleeping on a nipple? This may mean that they are ready to stop their naps.
2. Shortening of nap time
Is your child’s nap short? This may be a sign of less daytime sleep.
3. I have a hard time falling asleep at night
If a nap makes it difficult for your child to sleep at night, it may be time to drop them.
4. Wake up early in the morning
Surprisingly, a nap can sometimes cause early awakening. If your child is too early, a nap may be the reason.
5. Increase in energy level
Does your child have a lot of energy without a nap? They may have had enough rest at night.
6. Change of behavior
Be careful of changes in your mood. If your child is happy without a nap, they may be ready to stop.
7. Development according to age
Most children are ready to stop taking a nap between the age of two and five. If your child is this age and shows other signs, they may be ready.
Potential signs your baby still needs a nap
Whether a baby needs a nap can depend on age and individual development. This is a brief summary of how the nap evolves as the child grows.
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By 6 months: Most babies take 2-3 naps a day
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About 12 months: Most move to two naps every day
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15-18 months: In many cases, switch to a nap once a day
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Until 2 years: Most infants still need one afternoon nap
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3-4 years: Many children begin to grow naps
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Until 5 years: More than 80 % of children do not take a nap regularly
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6 years old or older: Nap in the daytime is not usually required
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Some children may take a nap up to 6 or 7
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Don’t forget that all children are different
These are just guidelines. Your child’s needs should always come first.
Tips for parents when shifting from a nap
Try these hints when navigating this change.
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Little naps little by little
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Take a nap in the second half of the day
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Try a quiet time instead of a nap
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As the naps decrease, go to bed faster
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Close to a regular sleep schedule
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Create a calm routine at bedtime
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Make sure your child will exercise sufficiently
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Especially before going to bed, reduce the time on the screen
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Be patient and flexible
Stopping a nap is a process, not an overnight change. Slowly, adjust as needed.
An alternative quiet time activity
If you don’t need a nap, a quiet time will help. Try these activities:
Activity
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advantage
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interval
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Read a book
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Literacy, enhance your imagination
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20-30 minutes
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Coloring or drawing
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It causes creativity and improves fine athletic ability
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15-25 minutes
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Listen to the audio book
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Improve listening skills and relaxation
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20-30 minutes
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puzzle
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Build problem solving skills
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15-25 minutes
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Yoga for children
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Promote relaxation and physical awareness
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10-15 minutes
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Toys and quiet play
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Encourage independent play
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20-30 minutes
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Mindfulness exercise
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I will teach you emotional control
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5-10 minutes
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These activities give children a break without sleep and help charging.
Final thoughts
So when do children stop taking a nap? As we have seen, there is no accurate answer. Most children stop between the ages of 2 and 5, which is very different. Your child’s needs should guide you. Be patient, flexible, and see the clues for your child.
If you do not know the need for your child’s sleep, consult a pediatrician. They can give you advice based on your child’s growth. And don’t forget to share your experience with your friends and family -you may help your parents through this exciting time!
Please read again 3 month wake window and sleep schedule
FAQ
How do you know if your child is ready to stop taking a nap?
Find out to fall asleep at a nap or bedtime, take a short nap, and to find signs like more energy than all day.
What happens if my child doesn’t take a nap but looks tired?
Try a quiet time instead. It can take a rest without pressure to sleep.
Should I get a child from a nap?
If late naps make your bedtime intense, you can wake them up. Finish the nap at least 4 hours before bedtime.
How do you handle grumpy when you stop taking a nap?
Previous bedtime is useful. Be patient when your child adjusts.
Is it normal that I need to take a nap occasionally after my child stops?
Yes, occasionally taking a nap is normal during this change. If your child looks very tired, it will be flexible.
How do you help your child wake up when you stop taking a nap?
Play active games, go outside, maintain regular routines, and keep alerts.