Steps to Drop a Nap

Sleep needs change as your Wee One grows and develops in the first few years of life. Just when you have your current nap routine and schedule figured out, it can feel like it’s time for another change. If you’re not sure if your baby is showing signs of being ready to drop a nap, then check out my other blog post on 6 Signs Your Baby is Ready to Drop a Nap before moving forward!

Here are 6 steps to drop a nap

If your Wee One is showing the signs that they are ready, follow these steps to drop a nap to guide you through the process.

Wait 2 weeks before making a change to the nap schedule

You want to make sure your baby is truly showing the signs that they are ready for a new sleep schedule. Throughout the first year of life, many babies will go through periods of developmental growth where sleep can be disrupted. This throws us for a loop and many will think the schedule needs to change when it’s truly just a developmental leap. If sleep gets back on track within two weeks then hold off on the transition, if not move forward!

Gradually increase wake windows

Start increasing awake time by increments of 10-15 minutes every couple of days. This means nap times will be a bit later than normal. There is a balance here between enough awake time to meet the new needs and not becoming overtired, thus the gradual increase!

Change up the activity when your baby starts showing those classic tired signs

Yes, this will tough in the first few days! Although your baby is showing signs of needing to drop a nap, they are adjusting to staying awake longer. When your baby starts to show those classic tired signs, then switch up the activity to get them through their new awake period. Take them outside if the weather permits, clank some spoons in the kitchen, or pull out a new toy!

Adjust bedtime earlier during the transition period

You may find that your baby can’t make it to their usual 7-8 p.m. bedtime during the transition period. 6 p.m. bedtime is okay and does not mean your Wee One will wake earlier in the morning! We don’t want an overtired baby going into bedtime! It takes time for your baby to adjust to new longer awake periods.

Continue with consistent bedtime and naptime routine

Your bedtime and naptime routines are so important to your Wee One’s sleep success. They count on this routine to know it’s time to sleep. Naptime routine can be a shortened condensed version of the bedtime routine!

Take your time! The transition can take 2-4 weeks

Nap transitions do not happen overnight! It takes 2-4 weeks to adapt to the new routine and make schedule adjustments. You are going to have off days during this process. Your baby may need to go to bed earlier than usual, they may need an extra nap at the end of the day if naps were short. Give yourself grace during this transition time!

Need more help with steps to drop a nap? Facing other sleep issues? Reach out for a consultation.

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