Naptime: What you need to know
While we often hear about how babies and toddlers sleep at night, daytime sleep is just as crucial for young children's growth and development. Daytime sleep is commonly known as "naps." However, there's surprisingly little research on what constitutes a nap, how many naps babies and toddlers need, and how long these naps should last. Much of what parents know about infant sleep comes from inherited assumptions rather than scientific evidence, as the field of infant sleep research is still relatively young.
Fact One: Bedtime Is Not Set in Stone!
The concept of when daytime starts and ends for children regarding sleep is still up for debate. Bedtime varies widely around the world for babies and children, just as waking times do. Researchers studying sleep patterns often set their own parameters for the start and end of the day, or rely on parents' definitions. This variability is crucial to consider, especially when examining daytime sleep, as what might be a morning nap for one child could be considered a late-night sleep for another. Despite the schedules advocated by baby experts, there's no concrete evidence supporting the idea that all babies should sleep from 7pm to 7am.
Fact Two: Safety Rules Apply Day and Night!
Despite widespread awareness of guidelines for reducing SIDS and other sleep-related risks, many parents overlook applying them during daytime naps. It's just as crucial for babies to sleep in the same room as their mother during the day as it is at night. Shockingly, a study revealed that 75% of daytime SIDS deaths occurred when babies were left alone in a room. The safest spot for your baby's nap is wherever you are. Co-napping or babywearing can help keep your baby close. However, if you have other responsibilities or need recreation during nap-time, ensure your baby naps in a safe space outside of the nursery or bedroom. While occasional naps in prams or strollers might be necessary, they aren't designed for regular sleep. Opting for an infant bed or bassinet that meets safety standards is the better choice.
Fact Three: Babies Have Different Nap Needs
If your baby sleeps soundly through the night, they'll likely need fewer daytime naps compared to a baby who wakes up often. Newborns typically sleep a lot, but as they grow, their sleep patterns change as they develop their own internal clock. Around 3 months old, babies start responding to day and night cues. Factors like exposure to natural or artificial light influence this development. To support your baby's natural sleep rhythm, let them experience daylight and avoid artificial light at night. The length of their nap depends on various factors like how easily they transition between sleep cycles and their nap environment. For instance, a baby sleeping against their mother's chest might nap longer than one in a quiet room.
Fact Four: Babies Grow into Their Sleep Patterns
As your toddler reaches 2 or 3 years old, they'll likely need less daytime sleep. From around 2 months, babies may start having regular naps throughout the day, often following a predictable schedule. During the first year, the number of naps changes, with transitions occurring around four, nine, and fifteen months. These milestones may coincide with challenging developmental leaps. Babies don't need to be trained to sleep at specific times. Instead, watch for their natural sleep cues and provide opportunities for rest. Following strict schedules or fixating on sleep times can disrupt this natural process and hinder healthy sleep development.
