how do you manage naptimes?

ShannonSky

I'm sure this has already been asked, but we all know the search function sucks. Anyway, I have a 4.5mo old and a nearly-2.5 year old. We've got a bunch of issues to work on (weight gain, potty training, sleeping in bedx2), but right now I'm going to focus on juggling naptimes and would LOVE some advice. IIRC, at this age DD1 was taking 2-3 naps per day. DD2 is not the type of baby who will sleep anywhere (unless it's in the car, the car still has magic sleeping powers for her), so I really need to put her down to nap - if DD2 naps from 1:30-4pm, when should DD1 nap?

marielovestimothy03

I got my two napping at the same time (for at least one nap a day, my oldest only napped once a day by the time #2 was born) as soon as I could after my second was born. They napped at the same time almost every single day until my older kid gave up naps. Now the oldest has quiet time during my youngest's nap time. I'd put your older DD down to nap during your younger DD's nap if you can. It's seriously been a sanity saver for me with 2u2 to have that time (nearly) every day to myself! Even if they overlap a bit or your older DD doesn't nap as long or starts heading towards just doing quiet time it's still nice to have that block of time each day where they're both napping/playing quietly!

12bailey18

Ditto PP that my kids take their afternoon nap at the same time. DS only take one nap and DD can catnap her morning nap while we are out and about. DS usually naps at 1:30 so I will put DD down at 1:15 while DS is having his milk and watching his "naptime show." By the time DD is aslep in her crib I go and put DS down in his. If I see that DD is gettng sleepy a little earlier I will play with her to keep her up. I have to make sure they nap at the same time...for my sanity.

jensahokie

Try giving your younger one a catnap, then both can go down for a longer nap mid-day.  This is much easier said than done, but if you are consistent for a few weeks, you can do it (even if it means staying home several days in a row!)