The Art of the Afternoon Nap

For babies and small children, nap time is essential. But as kids get older, the naps become few and far between until there’s no more napping at all. Sure, kids these days are busier than ever. Aside from school there are after school clubs and activities, sports practice, dance rehearsal, piano lessons, religious class, you name it. It is no wonder kids do not nap; there is barely enough time in the day to squeeze one in. Before throwing in the towel (or the blanket, in this case) altogether and declaring napping a no-can-do, consider these reasons to find a way to fit in an afternoon nap. A well-rested child is better off when it comes to his well-being.

Naps Clear the Mind

We all know that naps give our bodies time to relax. But the brain needs a regular recharge too. After a long day at school, a child’s mind may be running a mile a minute, making concentration dwindle and patience run short. A 20-30 minute nap before homework could do wonders for your child’s ability to focus. He will be better able to stick to the task at hand without any crankiness or confusion. The rest of the afternoon and evening will be more productive, pleasing both you and your child.

It Could Make Sleep Time Even Sounder

Some people think that an afternoon nap will disrupt the natural sleep cycle. But as long as the nap is brief and not too close to bedtime, it could actually make a good night’s rest a great one. Kids won’t become overtired by fighting fatigue, which often leads to trouble falling asleep at night. That after-school slumber gives kids a bit of a boost, providing enough energy to finish off the day and to grow sleepy again, winding down for those much-needed zzzs ‘till the sun comes up.

Do you encourage napping in your household? How old are your kids and how often/long do they nap each day? For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs. Sweet dreams!

By: Melissa A. Kay