If you have a toddler, you’ll probably have experienced the great nap debate: Do they still need one? Are they getting too old for naps? Will a daytime sleep mean bedtime becomes a battle? The truth is that there is no single answer. Every child is different, and while some toddlers seem ready to give up their daytime nap quite early, others still benefit from a little extra sleep well into their preschool years.
At St. John’s Nursery Group & Forest School, we take a child-led approach to sleep and rest. We have beds available for children who need a nap during the day, but we don’t expect every child to sleep. Instead, we pay attention to each child’s individual cues and needs.
Why are naps important for toddlers?
Sleep is an important part of early childhood development. It gives growing bodies and developing brains time to rest, recover and process everything they are learning throughout the day.
For toddlers, a good nap can help with:
💤 Rest and recovery
Young children have incredibly busy days. They are constantly moving, exploring, learning new skills and taking in new experiences. A nap gives their bodies and minds a chance to recharge.
🧠 Learning and concentration
Sleep supports the brain’s ability to process and remember new information. A well-rested child may find it easier to concentrate, engage with activities and enjoy their day.
❤️ Emotional regulation
We all know that feeling of being overtired – and toddlers are no different! When children are tired, they can sometimes become more emotional, irritable or easily overwhelmed. Getting enough sleep can support their ability to manage their emotions.
🌱 Growth and development
Sleep supports children’s physical growth and development as well as their overall wellbeing. This is particularly important during these early years when children are changing and developing so quickly.
When do toddlers stop napping?
There is no set age when a child should stop having a nap. As a general guide, toddlers aged 1–2 years usually need around 11–14 hours of sleep across 24 hours, including daytime naps. By around 18 months, many children have moved to one daytime nap, often lasting between one and three hours. As children move into the preschool years, their overall sleep needs gradually decrease. Children aged 3–5 generally need around 10–13 hours of sleep in 24 hours, including naps. Some children will still nap during this stage, while many stop napping before they start school. The important thing is to look at your individual child rather than the number on the calendar.
Some signs that your child may still benefit from a nap include:
- Becoming very tired or emotional during the afternoon
- Struggling to concentrate or engage in activities
- Falling asleep in the car or buggy
- Becoming particularly irritable towards the end of the day
- Needing significantly more sleep after a particularly busy day
On the other hand, a child who consistently refuses their nap, remains happy and engaged throughout the afternoon and sleeps well at night may be naturally moving towards dropping their daytime sleep. And it doesn’t always happen overnight. Some children gradually move from a daily nap to occasional naps, perhaps after a particularly active day, a busy weekend or when they aren’t feeling well.
Following their lead at nursery
At St. John’s, we understand that children don’t all follow the same sleep pattern. Our days are full of opportunities for children to explore, learn, play and spend time outdoors, so we recognise that some children may need a little extra rest. We have beds available for children who need a daytime nap. However, we don’t believe in making every child sleep simply because it is “nap time”.
Instead, we look at the child in front of us. If they’re showing signs that they’re tired, we’ll support them to have a comfortable, restful sleep. If they’re not sleepy, we won’t force them to nap. They may instead benefit from some quieter time before returning to play and learning. This flexible approach means we can support children who are still regular nappers alongside those who are beginning to transition away from daytime sleep.
What about the transition away from naps?
Moving away from naps can be a gradual process, and it’s completely normal for there to be some back and forth. Your child might manage perfectly well without a nap one day, but need one the next. They may stop napping at nursery but fall asleep in the car on the way home. Or they might cope without a nap during a quieter day but need extra rest after a particularly busy one. There’s no need to rush the process. Watching your child’s behaviour, energy levels and sleep patterns can help you work out when they are ready. At nursery, we can work alongside parents to share what we’re noticing and help make sure your child’s routine continues to meet their needs.
Every child has their own rhythm
One of the wonderful things about working with young children is seeing just how different they can be. There isn’t a magic age when every toddler suddenly stops needing a nap. Some children are ready sooner, while others need daytime sleep for longer, and both can be completely normal.
At St. John’s Nursery Group & Forest School, we aim to create an environment where children feel safe, supported and able to follow their own individual needs. Whether your little one is a dedicated napper, gradually dropping their daytime sleep or hasn’t napped for months, we’ll meet them where they are.
Thinking about nursery for your little one?
Why not come and see us for yourself? Book a visit to St. John’s Nursery Group & Forest School and discover how our nurturing environment, child-led approach and opportunities for learning, play and outdoor exploration could support your child’s individual needs. We’d love to show you around!
