A Note on Naps
Most preschoolers do still need naps
during the day. They tend to be very active — running around, playing, going
to school, and exploring their surroundings — so it's a good idea to give them
a special opportunity to slow down. Even if your child can't fall asleep, try to set
aside some quiet time during the day for relaxing. (And you'll probably benefit from
a break too!)
The best way to encourage napping is to set up a routine for your child, just as
you do for bedtime. Your preschooler, not wanting to miss out on any of the action,
may resist a nap, but it's important to keep the routine firm and consistent. Explain
that this is quiet time and that you want your child to start out in bed, but that
it's OK to play in the bedroom quietly if he or she can't sleep.
How long should naps last? For however long you feel your preschooler needs to
get some rest. Usually, about an hour is sufficient. But there will be times when
your child has been going full tilt and will need a longer nap, and others when you
hear your child chattering away, playing through the entire naptime.
Sleeping Problems
Preschoolers may have nightmares
or night terrors, and
there may be many nights when they have trouble falling asleep.
Create a "nighttime kit" to keep near your child's bed for these times. The kit
might include a flashlight, a favorite book, and a cassette or CD to play. Explain
the kit, then put it in a special place where your child can get to it in the middle
of the night.
Favorite objects like stuffed animals and blankets also can help kids feel safe.
If your child doesn't have a favorite, go shopping together to pick out a warm, soft
blanket or stuffed animal.
Some parents get into the habit of lying down next to their preschoolers until
they fall asleep. While this may do the trick temporarily, it won't help sleeping
patterns in the long run. It's important to give comfort and reassurance, but kids
need to learn how to fall asleep independently. Establishing a routine where
you have to be there for your child to go to sleep will make it hard for both of you
— and be unfair to your child — if you start leaving beforehand.
If you're worried about your preschooler's sleeping patterns, talk with your doctor.
Although there isn't one sure way to raise a good sleeper, most kids have the ability
to sleep well and work through any sleeping problems. The key is to establish healthy
bedtime habits early on.
Date reviewed: August 2014