Nap Time is a crucial part of your baby’s growth and development. While your child naps, their body re-energizes as the brain processes and stores information it has absorbed throughout the day. Plus, your little one isn’t the only one benefitting from nap time. Nap time is also a great time for you to recharge your batteries for when your child wakes up. 

Building a proper nap time schedule can help your child get a great headstart on life. From scheduling a diligent nap time routine to picking soft bamboo pajamas for your child, we’re offering a full set of tips for helping your baby have great naps. Check them out now!

Why Do Babies Sleep So Much?

Naps are essential for your child’s physical and mental development. 

It doesn’t take a keen-eyed observer to see that babies sleep — a lot. In addition to their nightly sleep routine, they also need a few hours a day for nap time. As parents, we aren’t going to complain about the extra shut-eye our babies get. But some might wonder whether their child is sleeping too much or too little. 

As a newborn, your child will display a somewhat short and erratic sleep schedule. In general, they will sleep for short spurts at a time during both the day and night. But as they grow older, you will notice their sleep patterns become more regular. Babies that are four to 12 months old typically enjoy two to three-hour naps while sleeping for longer stretches of time at night.

So what happens during this envious nap time? While they sleep your child’s brain stores memories, forms brain synapses, and develops physically. This process is crucial for building a solid foundation for your child’s future learning and health. Without enough sleep, your child may experience cognitive issues and developmental delays when they grow older. 

Tips and Tricks for Helping Your Child Have a Great Nap

Make sure your little one gets the rest they need!

Having trouble getting your little one to fall asleep? Try these top tips for organizing a successful nap time now! 

1. Focus on Building a Routine

Building and maintaining a consistent nap schedule can help your child form healthy sleep habits. Of course, when it comes to “scheduling” things for your baby, you might need to use the term loosely. Instead, you want to focus on building a regular daytime routine for your child. If your child starts skipping naps, they actually don’t make up for lost sleep at night. Instead, they will likely have a worse night’s sleep. 

2. Pay Attention for Signs They’re Feeling Sleepy

Keep an eye out for yawning, crying, and general fussiness in your baby. These are typically signs that your baby is ready for a nap. Seize these moments to prepare your child for a much-needed nap. 

3. Give Them a Break After Feeding Time Before Letting Them Nap

Babies typically fall asleep after a nice feeding. But over time, they might not be able to fall asleep without nursing first. To help them fall asleep on their own, try separating your feeding time and nap time. Giving them just a several minute break where you read to them or let them play can be effective. 

4. Re-name “Nap Time”

As your toddler grows older, they might start to resist nap time. Maybe they think that nap time is for babies. Or they just feel like rebelling against your request. As a result, you might have to “rebrand” nap time. Instead of telling them to go to sleep, tell them it’s time for “rest time.” Let them settle into their cribs or beds. Once their designated “rest time” is over, you will come back to (hopefully) see they’ve dozed off. 

5. Make Sure Your Little One is Active and Engaged When Awake

Whenever your child is awake, you should make sure they are active or engaged. Play some fun games with them or teach them some fun nursery rhymes. Not only are these activities great for helping you bond with your child, but it will help them feel more than ready for nap time once it comes around! 

Why Bamboo Pajamas Are a Game-Changer When it Comes to Preparing Your Baby for Nap Time

Treat your baby to a luxurious nap by dressing them in soft bamboo pajamas! 

Along with promoting healthy sleeping habits, you can also dress your child in soft, breathable bamboo pajamas to ensure they have a restful nap! 

Not only are bamboo essentials eco-friendly, but they are also breathable and stain-resistant. Every parent knows how rambunctious their children can get. Dressing them in soft, temperature-regulating fabric can help them stay comfortable both when they’re awake and asleep. 

When searching for comfy bamboo pajamas, make sure you purchase ones with reverse zippers for easy changes! Bamboo bodysuits and other jammies are also great for layering and keeping your child warm during cold nights. 

As a parent, you want your child to have a healthy start in life. Ensuring they have a restful nap time is just one of the many things you can do to help them grow into healthy and happy humans. What are some tried and true methods you’ve tested for putting your baby to sleep? Let us know! 

Are you on the hunt for soft and luxurious bamboo pajamas for your baby? Shop the super soft bamboo collection at Lark Adventurewear! Our baby bamboo essentials offer breathability, stain-resistance, and the ultimate experience in coziness.