You've been facilitating naps for your little one for what feels like forever, you're finally down to just the one nap per day. But the big question is, when will the final nap be dropped? The answer isn't a one size fits all, and isn't always straight forward. But read below for signs of them being ready to be nap free, when this might be and how to navigate it.
WHEN WILL THEY DROP THIER FINAL NAP?
Most babies begin by taking multiple naps throughout the day, but around the age of 12 to 18 months, they will usually start to consolidate their naps into just one per day. By the time they are between 2 and 4 years old, most children have dropped their final nap and are happy to go through from wake to bed time without the need for a nap. Two years is a large perameter however, it is very individual when your child will be ready to drop this nap.
SIGNS THEY'RE READY TO DROP THE FINAL NAP
Every baby is different, and the timeline for dropping the last nap can vary widely. However, there are a few key signs that your baby may be ready to drop their final nap:
Struggling to Fall Asleep for the Afternoon Nap
If your baby consistently has trouble falling asleep for their afternoon nap, it may be a sign that they no longer need it. They may take longer to settle down, cry, or even skip the nap entirely, despite seeming tired. This resistance is one of the first indicators that they might be outgrowing their last nap.
Waking Up Later in the Morning
As babies grow, they may start waking up later in the morning. If your baby is sleeping longer in the morning and is still able to make it through the afternoon without a nap, it might indicate that they’re ready to drop the afternoon nap.
Early Starts
Very early starts can also be a sign it is time to drop their final nap as it could be an indication that their day/night sleep balance requires some adjustment
Longer Morning Wake Window
If your baby is staying awake longer in the morning, it may be because they no longer need to sleep in the afternoon. A longer wake window could mean that they are naturally outgrowing the need for that second nap.
Bedtime struggles
If your baby takes a late afternoon nap but then has trouble falling asleep at night, this could signal that their final nap is no longer needed. A late nap can disrupt their nighttime sleep, making it harder for them to fall asleep at a reasonable bedtime.
Easier Bedtime
If your baby is able to fall asleep more easily at bedtime without taking the final nap, it’s likely a sign that they’re ready to drop it. When your baby drops their afternoon nap, they may naturally feel tired and ready to sleep by bedtime without needing that extra rest in the afternoon.
HOW TO MANAGE THE TRANSITION
Dropping the final nap is a big transition, but with the right approach, it can go smoothly. Here are some strategies for managing the change:
Gradually Adjust the Schedule
If your baby is struggling to fall asleep for the afternoon nap, consider gradually shortening the nap duration over a period of time. For example, reduce the nap by 15 to 30 minutes each day, and observe how your baby responds. If your baby begins skipping the nap altogether, you can begin adjusting their schedule accordingly.
Keep a Consistent Sleep Routine
Even though your baby is dropping their final nap, it’s important to keep a consistent sleep routine. You can maintain their morning nap time and stick to a regular bedtime routine. Consistency helps signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep, even if the second nap is no longer part of the day.
Offer Quiet Time
If your baby is no longer napping but still needs some downtime, you can introduce quiet time. This could involve putting your baby in their crib or a safe space with some soft toys, books, or even music. Quiet time gives your baby a chance to rest, even if they don’t sleep, which can help with their emotional regulation and avoid over tiredness later in the day.
Adjust Wake Windows
As your baby begins to drop their final nap, you may need to adjust their wake windows. They may need a longer time awake before bedtime, which will help them feel tired enough to sleep at night. Typically, toddlers can handle 5–6 hours of wake time before bedtime once they drop their last nap.
Look out for over tiredness
Dropping a nap can sometimes lead to overtiredness, which can make it harder for your baby to fall asleep at night. If you notice your baby becoming overly fussy, having trouble falling asleep, or waking up during the night, consider adjusting the schedule. An earlier bedtime may be needed to prevent over tiredness, or you may need to offer a brief rest period during the day to help recharge.
Flexibility
Even once your baby seems ready to drop their final nap, it’s important to be flexible. Some days, they may still need that nap, especially if they are going through a growth spurt, illness, or a busy day of physical activity. If your baby seems particularly exhausted, don’t hesitate to offer a nap again, and adjust the schedule as needed.
THE TAKE AWAY
Every child is different and their sleep needs are unique. There is no 'one size fits all' when it comes to sleep, and dropping the last nap varies hugely from child to child. Some children will drop the whole nap in one go, other children will gradually reduce the time they nap for, and others will experience disturbance to their night sleep and you may need to shorten or remove the nap for them. Sometimes it can take some trial and error, but keep consistent in any changes for a few days so you can get a true picture of what is working.
NEED HELP?
Working out your baby or child's sleep needs can be daunting and it can also cause worry that you may disrupt them or make their sleep more unbalanced that it currently is.
This is where working with a professional can help you look at your little one's current schedule, the issues you're facing and where they are in their development and whats going on in their home life and help you to build a schedule that works for your individual.
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If you would like more help with your child's sleep I can help create a tailor made plan for your family based on your individual needs. Explore my packages for something that suit you
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