Why is the first nap of the day so important?

Hey parents, that first nap of the day is my favourite time of the day. Bring on the breakfast smoothie, work out pants, and to-do list. This is the time where I can choose to rock the productivity or soak up the solace. 

Why is the first nap the ideal time of day to lavish on myself or my home?

Baby has an easier time falling asleep.

➡ It’s true! There is more melatonin (sleepy juice) in the body that is left over from baby's night sleep, so baby can sink into slumber more easily. 

It can be (and should be!) the longest nap of the day.

➡ The extra melatonin helps to extend baby’s nap.

➡ Baby needs to go through a full sleep cycle to be able to clear out unwanted chemicals in the brain, and to sort and consolidate memories, and to boost the immune system.

➡ It prevents overtiredness and baby is able to be well-rested, ready for all of the day’s adventures.

And on the caregiver’s end, because this nap is the longest, there is time to connect with other children, get an at-home workout in, finish the morning dishes, read a chapter, or get a full cup of coffee finished ❤️ I have enough energy and stamina to be productive during that time.

There are two schools of thought with the first nap being the longest. To dive into this, check out our video on when we cap baby’s naps.

How do you set baby up for success with that first nap?
➡ Keep to the wake windows that are appropriate for their age. Not sure what those are? Download our FREE Awake Times Chart.

➡ Make the room 100% “I can’t see my hand in front of my face” dark.

➡ Lay baby down to sleep in the crib.

➡ Use a sound machine.

Enjoy your morning stretch in a way that meets your needs, knowing that baby will be soaking up all of the benefits of their first nap.

Anna