Blissed Out BabiesBlissed Out Babies
A “danger nap” refers to a late-afternoon nap that potentially disrupts a child’s regular bedtime, leading to a later sleep onset. Traditionally, parents have been advised to prevent these naps to maintain consistent (earlier) bedtime routines. However, this perspective may not be universally applicable.
Children accumulate sleep pressure throughout the day, much like hunger builds when we go without food. Naps serve as a natural response to this increasing sleep pressure, aiding in mood regulation and memory consolidation. The duration a child can stay awake before needing sleep is known as the “wake window,” which varies with age, development and individual needs.
Adhering strictly to nap schedules may not be necessary for infants and toddlers, especially those between 3 and 18 months. Their wake windows are still developing, and flexibility can be beneficial. Forcing a child to stay awake to avoid a late nap might lead to overtiredness, making bedtime more challenging, and risking other overtiredness-related sleep challenges like false starts and early waking.
On the other hand parents can worry too much about children going to bed later than usual. Early bedtimes are not always helpful for young children, it’s a common sleep myth that children will sleep 7pm to 7am, it’s more realistic to expect them to sleep around 10 hours overnight from around 6 months to toddlerhood. So encouraging early bedtimes can impact the quality of night time sleep and can cause early waking.
In the bustling environment of Manchester, with its unique blend of urban life and community activities, parents often juggle multiple responsibilities. It’s crucial to balance structured routines with the individual sleep needs of your child. Observing your child’s cues and allowing flexibility can lead to better sleep outcomes for both the child and the family.
By focusing on the child’s individual needs and maintaining flexibility, parents can navigate the complexities of napping schedules more effectively. Remember, what works for one child may not work for another, and it’s essential to find a balance that suits your family’s unique circumstances.
For more insights and personalised advice on child sleep patterns, feel free to explore our other resources or get in touch with Jem, our Manchester-based sleep consultant.
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