We recommend meeting with your daycare and discussing their support system for easing new children through their napping transitions. It is not uncommon to ask if you can “pop in” and witness a nap time a week or two before school begins. This visit allows you to envision the room, for comfort, and also enables you to talk with your toddler about what their new room will look like.

Does your child have a favorite stuffed animalthey could bring to help with sleep? Other suggestions include sending a small book that he/she can interact with during naptime so they'll stay quieter. It is also not uncommon for parents to cut of a small square of a home blanket and tuck it in their nap mat. The Urban infant Tot Cot® nap mat actually has a “secret pocket” that kids love. It is hidden under their blanket for tucking in this something special

Select a children's book like "Naptime" (by Elizabeth Verdick) that reinforces the importance of napping and read it with your toddler. Ideally, read this at home and talk with your child about how naps keep them happy and healthy, and give them enough energy to play and run during other times of the day.

In working with hundreds of families and daycares across the country, we know there are differences in how each facility values and schedules nap time. Most schools try to keep all the kids on the same routine, while others are more accommodating to individual needs. Interview and find a preschool that seems to be a good fit with your napping values.  

 Get your bedding early, at least a few weeks before preschool starts. Instead of a pillow and blanket, most schools prefer nap mats. Allow your toddler to select their favorite color or pattern. Practice napping at home with your child’s nap mat. Explain this is a new, special mat and blanket - just for their new school. Check out our Nap Mat Guide for more information about how we can help your child transition to napping at school!

Whether you're looking to adjust your child's current nap routine at school or it's their first nap away from home, we know you've got this! Check out our award winning Tot Cots and see for yourself the difference they can make in your life!