Tips and Ideas for Naptime in the Montessori Infant/Toddler Environment

Recently a NAMC student asked a question about toddler nap time in the Montessori childcare environment:

I am seeking advice for toddler nap time. We have one toddler who fights napping by rolling, climbing, getting on all fours, and generally not being still. We have moved his cot away from the others so he doesn't distract them, but it is still difficult. We have another toddler who makes loud noises, I think as a way of getting attention. This generally goes on for 15 minutes or so, then everyone sleeps for 1.5 to 2 hours. We have tried ignoring the behaviors, but they accelerate and spread to other children. What suggestions do you have?

Working on a Peaceful Naptime in the Montessori Environment- Tips and Ideas

As you know, toddlers are beginning to assert their independence and control over their own lives. This comes in many forms. For some, it can take the form of not wanting to wear clothes Mom has picked out. My own son refused to eat meat. And for others, naptime is their source of power. In the childcare setting, it is even more pronounced since you must follow a schedule for everyone and cannot alter naptime for just one child.

Here are some ideas that you may find helpful:

• Instead of calling it naptime, call it quiet or rest time. If the child doesn't feel like he is being forced to go to sleep, he may not fight it as hard.
• Allow the child to have some books on his cot to read until he is sleepy.
• Play soft, soothing music and encourage all the children to listen quietly so everyone can hear it.
• Read a story once everyone is snuggled into their cots. A longer story told in a hushed whisper will focus attention away from playing.
• Use a fan or white noise machine in the room to help block noise.

I would also kindly suggest that you talk to the children’s parents about routines they follow to get their little ones to sleep. They may have a special ritual before sleeping like getting a drink of water, sleeping with a particular stuffed animal, or being rocked or patted to sleep. Knowing about such routines may be just the key you need to help the children get to sleep. Lastly, you might try sitting beside the child who is noisy or who cannot get to sleep. Just having someone near can provide the calm and sense of security the children crave.

As much as possible, NAMC’s web blog reflects the Montessori curriculum as provided in its teacher training programs. We realize and respect that Montessori schools are unique and may vary their schedules and offerings in accordance with the needs of their individual communities. We hope that our readers will find our articles useful and inspiring as a contribution to the global Montessori community.
© North American Montessori Center - originally posted in its entirety at Montessori Teacher Training on Friday, December 6, 2013.