Most toddlers transition from two naps a day to one when they’re between one- and two-years-old. Around this time, they’ll probably start sleeping through the night more solidly than when they were an infant, and they may not need quite as much sleep during the day.
As you look to make the transition, keep an eye out for some clear signs that let you know it’s time: your toddler may start to resist naps or become moody when you put them down for a nap, they might take longer to drift off when you put them down for a nap, they might wake up early from their naps, or they might make it through the day just fine even when something gets in the way of their second nap.
That said, even if the signs are all clear, it can still be a tricky transition. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Every child is different.
Just because your child is a certain age doesn’t mean you need to phase them into a one-nap-a-day schedule. If your toddler doesn’t seem to be adjusting into a new napping schedule with ease, consider holding off for a month or so before trying again.
This transition will take time.
Switching to one nap a day most likely isn’t going to happen overnight. Some days may be a one-nap day and some days may be a two-nap day. One tip is to keep the transition gradual by pushing the morning nap a bit later each day until you can completely remove it and replace it with just one nap in the afternoon.
The afternoon nap may be longer than it used to be.
After removing the morning nap, your toddler may be extra tired by the time nap time rolls around. This means they will probably take a longer afternoon nap than you’re used to. Many people also shift the afternoon nap a bit earlier, such as right after lunch.
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