Sleep is important for all human beings. Without enough of it, our brains will constantly be in a fog, and our bodies will not be able to stave off infections. And young children need more sleep than adults. Naps are, therefore, important for babies and toddlers as they help to make up to the additional hours required.
For parents, naps can mean precious me-time. When your child is sleeping, you can also use the time to take a break and catch up on your own needs and wants. However, as with most good things, frequent naps will also come to an end some day. The question is – when?
Benefits of Napping
Daytime napping delivers a slew of benefits for growing children. Studies have found that napping enhances the memory retention of young children and allows them to have better cognitive abilities. Kids who do not get enough nap time are also more prone to feeling tired and tend to eat more. This may result in a higher rate of obesity. Furthermore, the lack of adequate shut-eyes tends to create emotional issues in them.
How Much Sleep Do Children Need?
The right amount of sleep depends on the age of your child. The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following daily sleep schedule for different age groups:
- Newborns (0 - 3 months): 14 to 17 hours
- Infants (4 to 11 months): 12 to 15 hours
- Toddlers (1 - 2 years): 11 to 14 hours
- Pre-schoolers (3 to 5 years): 10 to 13 hours
- School-going children (6 to 13 years): 9 to 11 hours
When Should Kids Stop Taking Naps?
When do babies drop to 1 nap, or even none at all? As a rule of thumb, kids should stop daytime naps when they feel fully energised throughout the day without one. For parents, it’s therefore important to know the signs to watch out for. You can reduce your child’s nap times when you notice the following signs:
1. Difficulty falling asleep at nap time
Children who no longer need naps may find it harder to fall asleep during nap time. They may fidget or sing while laying in bed, or may even put up a struggle.
2. Difficulty falling asleep at bedtime
Likewise, if your kid is taking naps in the day but having trouble falling asleep at night, it may be a good idea to see if dropping the daytime nap helps. Refrain from delaying your child’s bedtime, as this can make it more challenging to develop a consistent sleep schedule.
3. Waking up earlyÂ
If your child has a good night of rest and does not need naps to stay awake and alert, it is a strong sign that he or she no longer needs the afternoon nap.
Give Your Child a Restful Sleep With Palette Box
While a 5 year old can do without naps, a 3 month old baby will still spend a good portion of the day sleeping. When your child is no longer showing signs of sleepiness on days without naps or is simply not napping at all, you know it’s time to say bye to daytime snoozes. However, it’s important not to rely solely on him or her waking up early as the only sign, as this could be affected by several factors. Inconsistent schedules, over-excitement, and improper bedding can all lead to poor quality sleep.
At Palette Box, we understand the importance of good, quality sleep, especially for the little ones. From airy cots which provide a comfortable sleep to ultra-breathable mattresses that feel good on the skin, we’ll be able to help your baby or toddler sleep or nap well. With the right bed and bedding accessories, you can encourage good sleeping habits and posture, which are important for every growing child. Schedule a showroom appointment to check out our range of top quality baby furniture and accessories now.