N-A-P is not a Four Letter Word!

It just amazes us how some parents get all flustered over the mention of a rest time at preschool.  We can see the bubble over their heads with visions of a child staying up all night and keeping them up too. But just calm down a minute and hear us out. It varies, but most states require nap for children under the age of three. Truly, that down time is just as important for three, four, and five year olds too. You have to remember that they have been up and at ‘em early and play pretty hard all morning. Relaxation time is SO important in the daily routine so please don’t deny them of  it.

The point we’d like to stress is that before panicking, ask exactly what the nap policy is. Many places are flexible and may require that your child simply rest his/her body for forty-five minutes and then are allowed a quiet activity for the remainder of the time. Studies have shown that a little rest or shut eye in the middle of the day actually promotes a better night’s sleep! And as veteran preschool teachers, we can tell you first hand that a little rejuvenation time is a positive thing that prevents the late afternoon meltdown.

Programs that are trying to lure parents in with promises of no nap at all are doing a disservice and are not concerned with the developmental needs of young children. Yes, that’s how we feel!  So instead of running the other way when you hear the word NAP, be glad your center is still doing the right thing for your child.

~ Jackie & Jo-Jo