Another question I get asked is whether we should allow a nap after nursery/childminders.
The answer here depends on a few things:
1. Age
* Babies under 1 year still need multiple naps a day (usually 3–4).
* Toddlers (1–3 years) typically need 1–2 naps, around 1–3 hours total.
If your baby didn’t nap enough at nursery, a short nap after pick-up can help prevent overtiredness and meltdowns.
2. Timing
* Try to avoid very long naps too close to bedtime—it can make nighttime sleep harder.
* A 20–60 minute “recharge nap” can help if it’s late in the afternoon.
3. Sleepy cues
* Rubbing eyes, yawning, fussiness, or zoning out are signs your baby is ready for a nap.
* Don’t force sleep if your baby is alert and happy—sometimes a quiet rest period is enough.
4. Consistency Is key
* A short post-nursery nap is fine, but try to keep regular nap times at home for predictability.
* Over time, your child will adjust to the nursery schedule and may need less “catch-up” sleep.
If you have a young baby who hasn’t slept well at nursery, let them nap after nursery if they need it—but aim for a short, restorative sleep that won’t disrupt bedtime.
If they are resisting a post-nursery nap, they are older or you pick them up from childcare later in the day, skip the nap and bring bedtime earlier ❤️
