IN Mars Area Spring 2017 | Page 17

INDUSTRY INSIGHT
EARLY EDUCATION
SPONSORED CONTENT
The Importance
of Nap Time
Y
our toddler shows all the signs that he is exhausted
and in dire need of a good old-fashioned nap. He
is yawning, whining, rubbing his heavy eyelids and
twirling his hair—but, at the mere mention of a
nap, he just may melt down. The explanation is truly
a simple one: Toddlers do not want to miss out on even one
moment of adventure, as they are beginning to understand
that they can assert their own independence as often as they
like to manipulate the world around them.
RESEARCHERS SAY
LEARNING THROUGH
PLAY IS THE ONLY WAY.
> FREE REGISTRATION!*
The solution is not necessarily as straightforward. Here are
a few tips for a more successful nap (or at least quiet) time:
n Plan a quieter activity before nap time begins to allow
for a winding-down period.
n Make the transition to nap time consistent each day:
potty time, read a book, cuddle up with a lovey or
special blanket.
n Never make nap time a punishment.
n Provide a restful place for nap time.
(Consider: darkening blinds, heavy curtains, calming
music, a fan or white-noise machine.)
n Make sure naps are in his bed or crib. This will help
him associate his own bed with sleep.
n If he absolutely refuses to nap, leave him with some
toys and books and tell him it’s quiet time.
Give him a hug and a kiss, tuck him in and leave the
room.
Remember, sleep is very important for a growing child. If
your child repeatedly gets up after you have tucked him in,
calmly take his hand and return him to his bed. Walk him
back to bed each time, and he will soon realize that you are
serious. If he still seems to have difficulty napping, let him
know it’s OK to stay awake, but he needs to use this time as
“quiet time.” Be calm—but firm—about this resting period.
Children (and parents, too!) need rest, even if they are not
sleeping.
n
CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP • 724-778-9999
PITTSBURGH (DOWNTOWN) • 412-515-1997
GoddardSchool.com
This Industry Insight was written by Dina & Matt Speranza.
*Offer valid for new Goddard families at the above location only. Some program restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offer.
The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc.
Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2016.
They are the owners of The Goddard School® located at 8065
Rowan Road in Cranberry. Goddard offers both full- and
part-time infant/preschool/kindergarten programs. For
more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call
724.778.9999.
MARS AREA
❘
SPRING 2018
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