Between the ages of 2.5-3 years of age, a child’s sleep needs are reducing and most will be ready to drop their day time sleep. Some may still nap happily and if their night time sleep is still ok then there is no reason to stop napping. For a 3 year old, I wouldn’t offer any more than 1.5 hours of sleep during the day as too much day sleep will interrupt their night time sleep. Their nap could be as short as 45mins if they genuinely need it.
Also remember, toddlers can refuse sleep if they really want to so don’t stop the naps too soon or presume they are ready just because they have refused to sleep for the last 3 days. Keep popping them in bed at their regular and give them the chance to sleep.
Signs that they may be ready to drop their nap could be:
- not sleeping during their nap time for 1-2 weeks
- napping but then difficult to settle to sleep in the evening
- night time wake ups
When your child stops napping or misses a nap during the day, offer an earlier bedtime of 6 or 6.30pm to minimise overtiredness impacting their night time sleep.
Remember that consistency is your friend! Be consistent and then observe your child to figure out what you think they may need. If you need help getting to the bottom of things, we are just a phone call away or you can contact Baby Sleep Consultant website
www.babysleepconsultant.co.nz
Samantha Krukerink
Certified infant and child sleep consultant
Email: [email protected]
Ph: 021 129 0129