When Daycare Drops Naps Too Soon: Helping Your Child Stay Well Rested

Is your child about to lose a nap because of a school schedule change? Maybe your little one still takes two naps, but daycare only offers one. Or they still need a midday nap, but they’re moving into an afternoon preschool or pre-K program.

As our kids age, they enter new classrooms, and new classrooms often come with new nap schedules. Sometimes, schools drop naps earlier than children are truly ready for. When a nap disappears too soon — or too suddenly — it can lead to night wakings, early mornings, cranky afternoons, and shorter naps.

The tricky part? Parents usually don’t have much control over school sleep schedules. But you do have control over what happens at home — and that can make all the difference.

How Much Sleep Does My Child Need?

Most children need more sleep than we realize. Adequate sleep supports growth, emotional regulation, attention, and immune health. The American Academy of Pediatrics provides age-based sleep recommendations, and many children struggle simply because they aren’t getting quite enough rest.

When Do Schools or Daycare Drop Naps?

Many childcare centers drop the morning nap around 12 months. However, most toddlers naturally keep that nap until closer to 15–18 months. This is often where families experience the biggest sleep disruptions.

Most children continue to need a daily nap until somewhere between ages 3–5 (and sometimes longer). This can become challenging when children enter a full-day or afternoon preschool or full-day kindergarten programs where naps are no longer built in.

Even without a school-day nap, your child can absolutely remain well rested with the right support at home.

How to Keep Your Child Well Rested

Try an earlier bedtime on school nights. Earlier bedtimes are one of the most powerful tools for preventing overtiredness. Night sleep is deeper and more restorative than nap sleep — for children and adults alike.

Honor naps on weekends. If your child still needs a nap or two naps, continue offering them on non-school days. It’s okay if the weekend schedule looks different from the school routine. Children adapt quickly, and protecting needed sleep helps prevent sleep debt.

Consider a slightly earlier bedtime on weekends, too. This helps rebalance sleep after busy school days and keeps your child feeling their best. This is especially helpful for kids who are sensitive to sleep disruptions.

What About Working Parents?

If both parents work and evenings feel rushed, you’re not alone. Many families don’t arrive home until what would ideally be bedtime. But even small adjustments — like streamlined routines or shifting bedtime earlier where possible — can make a big impact.

You are not failing if bedtime isn’t perfect. With the right strategy, your child can still get the rest they need. Just do the best you can.

The Bottom Line

School-required nap transitions can be challenging — whether they happen too early or right on schedule. Focus on early bedtimes during the week, age-appropriate sleep routines at home, and protecting rest whenever possible.

And if you’re feeling unsure about how to make it all work, Smart Night Sleep is here to support you every step of the way.

Ready for better sleep?

If your child is struggling with nap transitions or bedtime battles, I’d love to help. Visit SmartNightSleep.com to learn more or schedule a consultation.

Wishing you rest,

Jennie Clarke

Certified Child Sleep Consultant and Founder

Smart Night Sleep

**Based out of Orlando but works remotely with families everywhere.