When I first became a mom, I was determined to stick to a strict naptime schedule for my toddler. That all changed when my second child arrived. The daily battle at nap time turned into such a production that I ultimately decided to let my two-year-old nap wherever he fell. And guess what? He found some pretty wild spots!
Now, as a proud advocate of what I like to call the “natural napping” movement, I have two boys who pick their own cozy corners, snooze soundly, and wake up ready to conquer the world. Sure, there may be some drool on the couch or crumbs on their faces, but a well-rested child equals a happy child—and a happy mom!
It turns out kids are pros at finding the perfect nap locales. For instance, who can resist the sun-warmed deck on a lazy summer afternoon? It’s basically like having your own personal sauna, but for free! I like to label this moment “Ding Dong, the Deck’s a Bed.”
Sometimes, a quick nap is necessary right after a meal. Hey, it’s hard work mastering the harmonica, right? If your child is an active little athlete, a brief snooze now and then can be just the ticket to keep them on their toes—or their skateboards.
Of course, napping can lead to some unexpected positions, but who am I to judge? Whether it’s gardening or soaking up some fresh air, nature has a way of lulling little ones into dreamland. And let’s face it, shopping can be exhausting! Why wait until you’re home to recharge? A quick rest in the car or even a cozy spot in the store can do wonders.
When it comes to napping, the world is your oyster—just make sure to pick the fluffiest side of the pillow for that cat nap. Or maybe just borrow a cushion from your pet dog. If the day feels overwhelming, there’s nothing wrong with going incognito and finding a little privacy to curl up.
Remember, there are no strict guidelines for napping. They just happen, and trying to control them can lead to more headaches than restful moments.
This article was originally published on November 14, 2013.
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In summary, napping can happen anywhere—whether it’s on a deck, in a car, or even while you’re shopping. Kids have an innate ability to find the perfect spot to nod off, and it’s all part of the adventure of parenting.