For many children, a mid-day rest is crucial to proper growth. Timed properly, this naptime allows their bodies to devote energy to digestion, so maximum nutrition can be extracted from their meals. A well rested child is more likely to enjoy the day and to be cooperative and friendly. For toddlers and two-year-olds, a brief nap after a morning snack and a longer rest after lunch are common. Most three- and four-year-olds only require a single nap. In a daycare setting, many caregivers will schedule a quiet period for coloring or storytelling during the late morning, for children who're accustomed to, or need, the mid-morning nap, then have a formal naptime after lunch. Most children will resist naptime occassionally. Mostly, this is due to a desire not to miss out on exciting activities, or a realization that they have an independent will. When a child refuses to sleep during naptime, it's a good idea to refer to it as a 'rest time' and require them to be quiet and lay still so other children can rest. This will allow their body to expend energy on digestion, to help them remain healthy.
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