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Can My Toddler Drop Their Nap?

Writer's picture: Charlotte EvansCharlotte Evans

Updated: 4 days ago

In short: yes… and no.


Every child is different. Some toddlers have lower sleep needs and manage just fine without a nap, happily making it to bedtime without much fuss and taking a decent 11-12 hour period of overnight sleep. Others have higher sleep needs and become irritable and super tired by late afternoon if they miss their nap.


Between ages two and three, your toddler undergoes significant developmental milestones that can impact their sleep, but whether or not they are refusing naps it’s important they get the rest they need to support these developments. These developments include growing independence, expanding imagination, and enhanced problem-solving skills.



Key Developmental Milestones Around Age Two


At this stage, your little one is developing:

  • Language and speech skills

  • The ability to think about things not physically present

  • Mental problem-solving abilities, reducing the need for trial and error

  • A sense of time, like understanding “before” and “after”

  • A belief in personal responsibility, such as thinking they caused an event (e.g., a family member’s illness)

  • Imagination, which can lead to new fears at bedtime

  • An increased ability to stay awake longer, up to six hours


These changes can make sleep more challenging, and many parents may be fooled into believing their toddler can drop their nap.


Two year old nap

Common Sleep Disruptors for Toddlers


Sleep challenges around age two are often linked to:

  • Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed

  • Starting potty training

  • Adjusting to a new sibling

  • Separation anxiety

  • Developing imagination and fears


These disruptions may convince parents their child no longer needs a nap. However, I recommend keeping naps in your child’s routine until at least age three.


Supporting Your Toddler’s Daytime Rest


If your two-year-old resists naps, there are ways to ensure they still get the rest they need:

  1. Keep offering a nap: If they refuse, substitute quiet time instead.

  2. Adjust bedtime: If they skip a nap, consider an earlier bedtime—6 pm is fine if needed (re-consider this if they start waking at 5am!)

  3. Stick to a routine: Maintain consistent nap and bedtime schedules.

  4. Meet their requests upfront: Include their favorite rituals (e.g., a specific book) and avoid “just one more” requests.

  5. Offer choices: Let them choose small things like which pyjamas to wear or which cuddly toy to bring to bed.

  6. Delay the bed transition: Keep them in a cot until at least age three, unless they often climb out.

  7. Provide security: Give extra one-on-one attention during the day to reduce separation anxiety.

  8. Use positive reinforcement: Praise them for staying in bed or napping well.


The Takeaway


While some toddlers may appear ready to stop napping at age two, most still benefit from daytime rest. By understanding their developmental needs and maintaining a consistent routine, you can navigate this tricky phase of sleep and support their overall well-being.


Parenting during this stage may be challenging, but remember, these milestones and challenges are actually a sign that your toddler is developing well!



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