Preschool and the Nap Transition: What No One Tells You

Kids at preschool might not be ready to drop their nap

Starting preschool is a huge milestone — not just for our toddlers, but for us too.

For me, it was a bittersweet feeling. I wanted more time for myself, but I also felt like I was missing out on so much. To be honest, that bittersweet moment didn’t last as long as I expected… once I got a few quiet hours to myself and saw my little one thriving, I was completely fine. In fact, I even started using extended care — haha!

But let’s be real — it’s a big transition for preschoolers, especially when they’re still napping.

Here’s the thing: some preschools drop naps around age 3. The problem? Most toddlers aren’t ready to drop naps yet. That’s why, when you pick them up, they either have a full-on meltdown in the car… or if you're lucky, they pass out before you even pull out of the parking lot.

They’re exhausted from their day, and understandably so. New routines, stimulation, social interaction, and less rest — it’s a lot for little brains and bodies. Both of my kids still needed a nap at least once a week well into their fourth year.

So, how can we support them during this transition and set them up for success?

Here are a few helpful tips:

1. Prioritize Night Sleep

Most toddlers need around 11 hours of sleep at night. Since you can’t really control their wake-up time (thanks, preschool schedule), the best way to protect their rest is by offering an earlier bedtime.Yes, sometimes that means lights out by 7:00 or even 6:30 pm!

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2. Gradually Reduce Nap Length

If your child is still napping longer than an hour, try shortening the nap every other day. You might go from 60 minutes to 45, then 30 — until it naturally phases out. This can help prevent bedtime battles and smooth the transition.

3. Allow for Skipped Naps

It’s okay if they skip a nap some days. On those no-nap days, make sure bedtime is extra early — think 6:30 pm — to avoid overtiredness and meltdowns.

4. Weekend Naps Are Totally Fine

Let go of the pressure to stay “on schedule” seven days a week. If they’re tired and need a nap on the weekend — let them nap. Their bodies are still learning to adjust.

5. Car Naps Are a Lifesaver

If your child tends to fall asleep on the way home from preschool — embrace it. This might become part of your new routine. I used to plan for it! I’d bring a book and stay in the car for 30 minutes while my son slept.

6. Expect Some Trial and Error

Finding a new rhythm will take some experimentation. For us, a 30-minute car nap every other day ended up working best. Some days it was every two days. Just stay flexible and patient.

This is a big adjustment for your little one — new friends, new teachers, a new classroom. Meltdowns are part of the deal.

Focus on keeping yourself well-rested so you can show up with more patience and energy. And most importantly — enjoy your free time! You’ve earned it.