Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

I feel like I try to watch for the signs. Yawning, rubbing eyes, etc. But almost every time i try to put her down she cries. I wonder if I am missing that window. If she gets really overtired, i cant put her down at all.

I guess she is fighting it, but i feel so bad that i leave her to cry. I know i have to be consistent, but if she cries for more than 15-20 minutes i go and get her. should i just leave her there? It just really gets me upset for her to cry like that.

Does anyone else have similar problems and feel like a failure for nap time?

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

you may be missing her window.

start a journal of her activities....wake time, eat time, how long she stays awake....and after a few days you will notice a pattern!

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

My DS has a definite pattern. He is awake for 1.5 to 2.5 hours after eating and then needs a nap. He will start to get cranky like clockwork, and I have to grab that chance. He actually smiles when I swaddle him for a nap and all I do is swaddle and pop a pacifier in his mouth and his eyes roll back to go to sleep.

I missed his cues for a while, till the timing thing just became obvious.

HE also does this cry like hes in pain, and its always a need for sleep ( for him).

I think all babies are different though.

I like the idea to keep track for a few days till you see the pattern.

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

My dd has been horrible with naps up until the past few days..I was always watching for the signs as well and as soon as i saw it i would try to gt her to nap but she would fight it to no end..the other day the dr told me to put cereal in her formula ( i called bc she was spitting up so much) and im not sure but i think that is making her fuller and happier which in turn is making her take naps..thats the only thing i can think of bc nothing else has really changed..maybe dc is still hungry a little?

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

My DS has a definite pattern. He is awake for 1.5 to 2.5 hours after eating and then needs a nap. He will start to get cranky like clockwork, and I have to grab that chance. He actually smiles when I swaddle him for a nap and all I do is swaddle and pop a pacifier in his mouth and his eyes roll back to go to sleep.




Same thing with my son, especially for the swaddling!

Re: Naps - why do I feel like a failure when it comes to getting my DD to nap.

This week I have been determined to pick up Jack's signs for a nap. I've been doing pretty good up until today. He has been fighting me all day and won't go down.