The benefits of napping on babies (and their parents!)

We ask young parents a lot if their baby sleeps at night, but we sometimes forget the nap, which is just as beneficial. During these periods of rest, their bodies and brains work to assimilate everything they have learned and experienced. We explain the theory (how long, how) around naps... While knowing that each child is unique and has their own rhythm.
Les bienfaits de la sieste sur bébé (et leurs parents !)

Understanding nap rhythms according to baby's age

Sleep needs change rapidly depending on the age of children. Here's what we see in general.

Nap needs from 0 to 3 months

During the first few months, baby's sleep is spread throughout the day and night. On average, a newborn sleeps between 18 and 20 hours a day, with 4 to 5 short naps. These cycles allow his brain to adapt to the day/night rhythm, a process that is still under construction at this age.

From 4 to 12 months: towards a gradual reduction in naps

From 4 months, the sleep-wake rhythm becomes regular, and baby begins to reduce the number of naps with 2 to 3 naps, lasting between 30 minutes and 2 hours per nap.

From 1 to 3 years: the afternoon nap

At this age, most children only have one nap per day, usually after lunch (between 1.30 and 2 hours). It helps to avoid fatigue peaks at the end of the day, and ensures a more serene fall asleep at night.

Depending on the time of year, child care and activities, your child may be tired in the morning or after the day. For example, some babies need a mini nap when they get home. #powernap

At what age does a child stop napping?

We're sorry to tell you this, but most kids stop napping between the ages of 3 and 5. The period of the small and middle section is not always obvious. On the one hand, Junior's sleep needs are physiologically reduced. On the other hand, school is exhausting! Result? Junior takes big naps at school.

The parents pick up a healthy child who is sometimes slow to find the sandman in the evening. For older children, you can trade a nap for a quiet moment (preferably without a screen).

The physiological and cognitive benefits of naps for babies

Let's start by explaining the benefits of napping. The first months (what am I saying, the first years) of a baby's life are marked by intense neural development. It is during sleep, especially naps, that brain connections are strengthened and new information is consolidated.

In other words, each nap contributes to the organization and memory of acquired learning (sounds, movements, interactions) and promotes the good development of long-term memory.

Then, who says rested baby, says baby in a better mood, less stressed and better able to sleep at night. Much like an adult, a baby in debt for sleep will tend to be grouchy. And let's be honest, nap time for babies is also a time of rest for their parents. You know, the famous one, rest when baby sleeps?

After theory, let's move on to reality. Keep in mind that every baby is different, there are short sleepers and there are big sleepers. The key is to understand and meet your child's needs.


Our secret weapons for a good nap

Babies need a calming environment to rest well, day and night. Your mission, if you accept it, will be to create a framework that is predictable, reassuring and adapted to the needs of your child. Our advice:

  • Observe the signs of sleep (baby rubbing his eyes, yawning...) rather than your watch to go to bed.
  • Create a reassuring nap ritual
  • Organize a suitable environment: a pleasant temperature (around 19-20°C), a bit of darkness but not too much, so as not to confuse the night.
  • For naps, babies don't always need to be in their baby bed, but that helps.
  • If you are out for a walk, leave him in his stroller. We will surely be talking to you about Nordic naps very soon...
  • A very cozy bed, of course! Think of rocking, which can help little ones fall asleep. That's why our KUMI cradle and the KUKO bassinet can be swung thanks to their wooden stand.
  • Our KUMI baby bed is equipped with new wheels to move wherever you want and even punctuate your baby's naps.
  • Finally, you asked us... The bed canopy adapted to KIMI is here! Your toddler will be safe in his cocoon.

My baby is not napping, is that bad doctor?

Not necessarily! There are lots of possible reasons, not to mention reflux or GERD. Also, keep in mind that nap needs may vary depending on age, teething, or development. Do not hesitate to ask your pediatrician for advice if your baby does not nap.

The Charlie Crane Team

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