How long should my child take naps?

Morning naps, afternoon naps... But how long should they keep napping? A newborn and a 2-year-old have different physiological needs, but both need a rest during the day. (And so do you!) Here’s the breakdown:

Why napping is essential for babies

Because it’s a physiological need. Naps are deep, restorative sleep that complement nighttime rest. When a baby sleeps, their body produces growth hormones that help with bone development and healing. It’s also when the body eliminates waste and activates the immune system. In short, sleep helps ensure proper development.

Another advantage of naps: the brain processes and stores information learned earlier, and the central nervous system helps with emotional balance and development.

Napping at different ages

• Birth to 3 months: The baby needs 4 to 6 sleep periods throughout the day, usually between feedings.
• 4 to 9 months: 3 naps – one late morning, and two in the afternoon.
• 9 to 12 months: One nap in the morning and one early afternoon nap.
• From 1 year to 18 months: No morning nap, but a longer nap in the early afternoon.
• At 3 years: A short nap after lunch.
• At 4 years: Quiet time in a calm room, without noise.

If my 4-year-old doesn’t nap at school, is it okay?

In kindergarten, naps are usually replaced by quiet time, but many health professionals still say naps are important at this age. They help children retain what they’ve learned earlier in the day.

Stay-at-home mom, Léa, says, “I have the chance to pick up the kids for lunch. At school, they no longer nap, but my youngest, 4 years old, is exhausted when he gets home. So, I suggest he take a short nap after lunch to recharge before school. He’s much calmer at bedtime.”

When they start elementary school (around age 6)

By age 6, most children have learned to forgo naps. Instead, they need some quiet time. If a child still shows signs of needing a nap, check their total sleep hours and ensure they’re getting enough rest. If they’re tired, offer a nap on weekends or Wednesday afternoons.

How to tell if your baby still needs a nap

If your child is cranky, irritable, or overly excited, it’s possible they haven’t had enough sleep. Try to introduce quiet time after lunch or offer a nap if they seem tired. Missing naps will only make it harder for them to sleep at night – a tired child tends to be more irritable and struggles to fall asleep.

When a 2-year-old doesn’t want to nap anymore

At 2 years old, it’s a battle to get them to nap. After weeks of refusals, the evenings are chaotic – the child becomes grumpy, restless, and difficult. It’s likely they need a nap. If they’re trying to act like the older kids at daycare, you may need to find quiet time for them at home. Maybe you could try taking a “micro nap” with them.

Napping on vacation: is it more complicated?

Not necessarily. Your child is in a new environment, but it’s your job to help them feel comfortable in this new place. You can maintain bedtime routines from home, such as songs, stories, or cuddling with their favorite stuffed animal, to help them sleep.

If you’re out and about, use travel time in the car, stroller, or baby carrier as an opportunity for your child to nap. Children can often sleep anywhere, even if they’re not in their own bed.

On hot days, try to schedule outdoor activities early in the morning so they can still have an afternoon nap and stay cool. Avoid going out between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to ensure everyone can rest during nap time.