Those With Non-Nappers, When Do You Get 5 Min??

[AmyLeigh]

Here's a good post on quiet time activity.

http://auntannieschildcare.blogspot.com/2011/05/i-hate-preschool-rest-time-alternative.html

I am IN NO WAY saying any of you are wrong. Just sharing a different perspective.

Amen and amen!! Thank you for posting.

I have only one napper. She is in a PNP and asleep 15 minutes after lunch is over. I had to put the PNP at the end of the hallway, as she is a light sleeper and needs quiet and dark. So that is her 'space' to nap everyday. The other children know the routine and don't go near her unless they need to use the restroom. Even then, they are very quiet and respectful of her nap.
I don't require the others have actual naps. But they are older, 5 and almost 5. One of whom would be in school this year had he been born like 2 days earlier. They can have down time, rest if needed, watch a movie, or play quietly in the playroom or in the backyard. I usually will make suggestions based on their behavior. We all know that our kiddos act differently when they need to rest.
I guess I don't need the time to myself like some do. They usually let me do my own thing whenever I need to do it. I can clean, read, surf, whatever, while they are enjoying themselves and each other's company.
That's why I say we are a big happy family. It works for us. lovethislovethis

[DaisyMamma]

Thanks everyone for your responses. I need to find the best solution for her and I. I cant see having her lay down for the entire nap time, but I think many kids benefit from a half hour of quiet.

[wahmof3]

For children not in school it is not an option here. Why lay down when I can watch tv, play, etc. I agree with above poster. Quiet time is just that, sleep or don't sleep, their choice, but they stay on their spot and they are quiet. In my experience (because I have tried it and it doesn't work), when you allow 1 to have books or a quiet toy, then the next one whines are wants the same. It is easier to treat everyone the same....

This is my rule as well. If you are not in school I require a nap/rest time. If the child doesn't sleep its ok they need a rest break and they will lie down. I have yet to have an issue with it. Not saying that I won't get that child that refuses to sleep and disrupts everyones nap, but I will cross that bridge when I get there- so far it works for me

[momma2girls]

For children not in school it is not an option here. Why lay down when I can watch tv, play, etc. I agree with above poster. Quiet time is just that, sleep or don't sleep, their choice, but they stay on their spot and they are quiet. In my experience (because I have tried it and it doesn't work), when you allow 1 to have books or a quiet toy, then the next one whines are wants the same. It is easier to treat everyone the same....

I totally agree with you. I have tried it as well, totally doesn't work here.

[gelbesonn]

I have one non-napper.... DS (2.5yrs)-- his choice. It makes bedtimes so much easier. Up until recently, I would put him in his crib with a few books and toys and he would play, sing, talk the whole time (he's alone in his room). Now since we've transitioned to a twin bed this month, his quiet time has shorted a bunch. I agree with pp that you can't force them to sleep, but I'd love to find a way for him to stay in one place (besides on my lap). I think I just need to be a little more firm with my expectations.
... today I told him he needed to stay in his room (gave him the choice to play and provided activities) until his music turned off (a 60 min CD). He turned it off after 15-20 min and came out... told me the music was off. Smarty pants.
DS:1, mommy:0.