Nap time is an important part of a baby’s daily routine. It helps them to recharge and prepares them for the next round of activities. There are some things that you should do to make sure your baby’s nap is as beneficial as possible, and there are also some things you should avoid. Read on for the do’s and don’ts of baby naps!
Do: Spot Sleepiness Early
The best time to put your baby down for a nap is when they are starting to show signs of sleepiness. This can be anything from rubbing their eyes to yawning or even just looking a little bit glazed over. If you wait until your baby is overtired, it will be much harder for them to settle down and fall asleep.
Don’t: Leave Your Baby Asleep in Car Seat
While it may be tempting to just leave your sleeping baby in their car seat, this is actually a really bad idea. Babies can develop a condition called positional asphyxia when they are left asleep in a car seat, which can be fatal. If you need to transport your sleeping baby somewhere, it’s best to transfer them to a stroller or bassinet.
Do: Know Babies Sleep a Lot
It’s important to remember that babies sleep a lot! They will usually take several naps throughout the day, and they need all of those naps to function properly. If you try to limit your baby’s nap time, they will likely become overtired and cranky.
Don’t: Wake a Sleeping Baby
Unless there is a good reason to do so, you should try not to wake a sleeping baby. Letting them sleep for as long as they need will help them to be well-rested and ready to take on the world!
Do: Allow for Flexibility
While it’s important to have a general nap schedule, you should also allow for some flexibility. Babies (and toddlers) can be unpredictable, and their sleep needs can change from day to day. If your baby is having an off day and needs an extra nap, don’t hesitate to give it to them.
Don’t: Forget the Bedtime Routine
Just because your baby is taking a nap doesn’t mean that you can skip their bedtime routine. Putting your baby to bed with a clean diaper, a full belly, and a gentle pat on the back will help them to sleep through the night.
Hopefully, these tips will help you to get the most out of your baby’s naps! Remember, every baby is different and you should always consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.