Nap policy for infants?

[Lee-Bee]

For many kids, that morning nap is crucial. After all, it's typical for kids between 1-2 years old to still need up to 14 hours of sleep. It's seems a bit unfair to a child who needs this nap to not make it a bit of a priority. If you put a child down for a nap early enough in the morning, it shouldn't interrupt the day. If needed, I'd personally much rather wait any extra 30 minutes to go out in the morning than to have a little one who is cranky and tired. While this nap could take place anywhere (bed/crib, stroller, car), some kids don't nap anywhere but in a bed/crib (as much as I tried, my youngest child never slept in his stroller). So while you could add to your contract that some naps might take place outside of the home for younger children, just be prepared for the possibility that some kids won't cooperate.

This is very true. But this is why it is crucial for both the family and the caregiver to choose the best fit. A child that will only nap in bed and needs long morning naps is not a good fit for a daycare that does frequent morning outings. both parties need to be honest and frank about what is needed to ensure a good fit.

My daughter NEEDED 2 hr morning naps until 18 months of age. I therefore was able to accommodate big morning naps here at my daycare and I filled my spots with families that needed that. But, it isn't fair for a daycare provider that doesn't want to accommodate long morning naps to be forced to, she needs to be honest at the interview and she needs to fill the spot with kids that can handle her chosen schedule.

There is no wrong here, it is just a matter of being clear and honest at the interview.