Benefits Of Napping For Children
The siesta is a topic of discussion: while many families consider it an essential tradition, others lead a rhythm of life that dispenses with this time of rest. Here are the benefits of napping for children.
Voices for and against siesta
Many say that a nap is a basic necessity for children under 3 years of age. In this way, they can recover from the fatigue they accumulated during the day; it is avoided, then, that they arrive at night burdened, restless and irritated.
As for its duration, it is established that up to 6 months of life, the ideal is that they sleep between 3 and 4 hours, although it may be a little more in the first months of life. The average amount decreases in one hour between 9 months and 1 year of life.
From the age of two, it is recommended that the little ones do not exceed 2 hours of nap. This number is reduced in half an hour from the age of 3. Finally, from 4 or 5 years on, this break should not be longer than one hour.
Can napping be harmful?
Others, on the other hand, point out its inconvenience, especially for those children with sleep disorders or respiratory problems. The main rationale has to do with taking naps that are too long; This can cause a headache and drastically alter your sleep at night.
5 great benefits of naps for children
Beyond the comments above, there are many more benefits of naps for children when they are measured. These are the five main advantages:
1. Replenish energies
In addition to the physical fatigue that can be generated from morning until nap time, this daytime rest is very positive for the minds of the little ones. During this time, a series of complex processes take place in the brain that help it to be ready to incorporate new ideas, in addition to fixing what has been previously learned.
Logically, the muscles also benefit from this stop. Thus, after hours of wanderings and games, the little ones will feel full again to satisfy their instinct of curiosity and investigation.
2. Improve your performance
Various investigations affirm that, both at school and in sports, children who nap tend to be more active and attentive than those who do not. Its main argument is that it reduces the feeling of fatigue and favors cognitive performance.
3. Stimulates sociability
An essential feature of the nap is that it offers the possibility of improving the mood, especially in the little ones. Therefore, they will be more attentive, patient and in a better mood during the day.
The result of this combination of positive consequences is greater (and better) sociability. It also has a reciprocal effect: no one likes to deal with irritable and fussy children, much less other infants.
4. It gives rise to growth
During moments of rest, the body generates the so-called ‘growth hormone’, which is actually somatotropin. Of course, this is essential for the growth of the little ones. Likewise, during sleep, cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine functions are regulated. It is a very productive break for our body, whose functioning never stops.
5. Promotes psychic well-being
All the advantages mentioned above contribute to promoting the balance of the organism, thereby contributing to well-being; being the mind one of the most benefited parts. In short, the siesta allows:
- Boost memory.
- Relieve stress.
- Have a better mood.
Tips to encourage your child to nap
As a mother, you can apply certain strategies to promote the nap habit in your children. Some examples:
- Establish a routine and stick to it.
- Check that the nap does not extend too long.
- Prepare a quiet and low-light environment; stimuli will prevent you from falling asleep.
- Do not put him to bed immediately after eating; Give it a few minutes to digest first.
Now that you know the benefits of napping for children, you will surely consider implementing this healthy habit in your child’s life. Beyond how good it will be for him, it will also help you take a little rest and recharge. Cheer up, mom!
