![]() Toddlers can be asked to clear their place, wipe the table, and wash their faces and hands. Since children finish eating at different times, the children who finish first should be given something to do while the others finish eating in order to avoid disruption. Moving from the lunch table to rest time can also be a difficult transition. Keeping the lights dim will help to make this transition take place smoothly. Allow them to wake slowly with your calm reassurances. Waking is also a major transition for children, and they may awaken disoriented or cranky. These routines can be signals that it is time for rest. Plan calming routines or rituals before these times of transition begin such as reading a story, turning the lights down or listening to soft music. Rest time can be a big shift in activity level and mood for children. Returning to the same rest area each day will increase the children’s sense of calm and may help them drop off more quickly. Once you’ve established where children will rest, try to keep this consistent. Physically separate children from each other who are likely to try to talk and play. Even the outgoing and rambunctious children may need an item that anchors them to home as they are trying to calm down. Establish a place that they can have their rest time yet also be easily supervised at the time that is comfortable for them.Īllow children (12 months or older) to have a comfort object from home (pillow/teddy bear). You may also have children with sleep times that don’t coincide with the group. Call this period on your schedule “rest” or “quiet” to avoid resistance from children who don’t “take naps.” This more accurately defines what you expect of them during this time period. This could be puzzles and books offered at their mats or activities provided in a separate area. ![]() For those who are not napping, it is helpful to offer them quiet play activities. Some children are not good sleepers, or they may find it difficult remaining quiet and still for a long period of time. Things to consider when planning rest time at your child care center. ![]()
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