Have two (or more) kids who still need to nap, but don’t nap at the same time?
Have the feeling you are managing naps all day long?
Not sure how you can keep your oldest happy while putting down your youngest for a nap?
With winter coming… have the feeling you are stuck to the house because of these naps and need some fresh air yourself?
Well, let’s first take a deep breath.
Although you probably don't want to hear this: it is all temporary and before you even know it, things will change. With kids close to this age, “normal” life might be put on hold a little. And that is okay too.
How to Manage Naps with Multiple Children
By Myrte Dikmans, Sleep Squad Consultant
Of course there are things which can help you through these months or years to make it all a bit easier for yourself. And these tips will give you and your oldest some (fun) time together:
1
Give the Oldest Some Helpful Tasks
If your baby naps in the morning and afternoon, but your toddler naps around noon, it can be challenging to keep your oldest in the morning entertained. Toddlers love to help, so give them tasks for the naptime routine of their baby brother/sister as an activity for them. They can help with the diaper change, turning off lights and turning on the sound noise machine, even sing Twinkle Twinkle Star for their brother or sister, or help out with story time. Your toddler will be very proud they are helping mommy.
2
Some Distractions Are Okay
It is okay to give some distraction for the older kids (read: TV time) while you put down your other kid. This gives you focus and less stress which will result in quicker sleep. And in the end, less TV time, and more playtime for you and your oldest. This is even easier if your kids are able to fall asleep independently and don’t need you to fall asleep. (Looking to teach your kiddo how to fall asleep and stay asleep independently? Check out The Murray Method for Babies digital sleep course here→)
3
Ask for Assistance
If you feel like you run out of time to go outside with your kids, see if you can invite a friend or babysitter over for the first nap of the youngest to babysit. In that case, you can go outside with the oldest and give that one-on-one time and fresh air he or she (and you) needs.
4
Adjust Their Schedules to Incorporate Some “Me Time” for Yourself
Yes, mama, you deserve time for yourself, too. Try to play with their schedules a little bit so you can have some sort of “me time” during the day. Even if it is only 15-30 minutes. (No, a shower doesn’t count!)
5
Incorporate a Motion Nap When Necessary
From the age of 7 months old, babies can typically have a clock schedule with two naps. Starting around 5 months, they are easily distracted if they need to sleep in a stroller or car seat as they are more aware of their surroundings. This might add more pressure to have your baby sleeping in the crib for naps. While it is true that napping in a crib results most of the time in better and longer naps (if the baby has independent sleep skills), it is okay to give a motion nap for one of the kiddos instead of the crib sometimes. It is also okay if that nap is shorter than it normally would be in the crib. You can move up the second nap or bedtime and get back to the regular schedule the next day. Kids are pretty flexible. So start planning those family outings!
Remember — It Won’t Last Forever!
In the end, it will be all temporary that the naps are co-existing so hold onto it and hang in there. You got this!
All team members have completed training with Kelly and have learned the Murray Method. Kelly continues to support, guide and oversee the Sleep Squad as they work with the families who trust in us. That way, all clients will experience the same amazing results (and lots and lots of sleep) regardless of who supports them.
Not sure if you need to work one-on-one but need guidance?
Check out our digital course → The Murray Method for Babies
Sweet Dreams
Kelly Murray is a certified sleep coach and an award-winning pediatric sleep consultant based in Chicago offering sleep coaching services nationwide.
