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Expert Q&A
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| By Susan Bartell Licensed Psychologist | ||
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Should I continue giving my 12-month-old a nap even if he resists?
Many children will resist going to sleep (day or night), but this doesn't mean their bodies don't need the rest. You need to ask yourself if your baby is actually able to make it through a whole day without napping.
At a year old, many children are beginning to walk, and the drive to move overcomes the one to lie down and sleep. But, ironically, as your child becomes so active, the daytime rest may actually become more important to refuel for activity.
I wouldn't give up naptime just yet. Instead, try to work out a routine that will make the transition to napping an enjoyable winding down time. Read a book, play a calm game or rock and sing songs for a few minutes before putting your baby in the crib. At around 18 months some children are ready to give up napping, but many still need a nap until about 3 years (or even as adults!).
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- My 2-year-old son bangs his head when he goes to sleep. Does this mean that he is being abused or is he disturbed about something?
More Answers by this Expert
- My 5-month-old son wakes up every half-hour after 4 a.m. How do I get him out of this routine?
- We have a 7-month-old and are expecting our second child. They will be 14 months apart. Do we need a second crib?
- I have 1-year-old twins and another baby on the way. Is it OK to have all three children in the same room?
- One of infant twins is suffering from colic, and they share a room. Should I separate them?
- What are your thoughts about allowing a 5-year-old to continue to sleep with his parents instead of her own bed in her own room?