When it comes to parenting, I like to consider myself a laid-back mom. My kids might munch on Cheerios off the floor, and our sleeping arrangements tend to be quite flexible. We often spend quality time at my friend’s Clubhouse, known as Mickey. Perhaps you’ve heard of him.
It’s not about laziness; it’s about survival. Juggling two kids, two dogs, and a husband who disappears into work each day means that choices have to be made. So, if I get the chance to unwind and keep my sanity intact, I’ll seize it with both hands. This is one of the countless reasons why I unapologetically stick to my kids’ sleep schedule.
As soon as my little alarm clocks wake me up, chaos ensues: Cheerio dust fills the air, VTech toys blare their tunes, and I find myself mediating disputes like “Don’t poke your sister with that fork! How did you even get it?” I can’t help but admit that within 45 minutes of waking, I’m already dreaming of nap time.
So, when a text pops up inviting me for a midday pho session, my response is always a firm “Nope, sorry.” My kids need their sleep, and I’m not one to compromise on that. I know some parents have those magical children who can thrive without naps, but I’m not one of them. Trust me, I’ve made the mistake of taking my kids out without their beauty sleep, and I regretted it immediately.
When nap time is skipped, it leads to tantrums—some of which include flying sippy cups. My one-year-old’s cries can reach ear-splitting levels. At this stage in my parenting journey, an hour spent wrangling hyper kids and cleaning up spills sounds far less appealing than a bowl of pho. No, thanks. Today, my kids will nap.
I’ll admit, my motivations aren’t purely altruistic. My kids need their naps to help manage their emotions (read: avoiding bites, screams, and general chaos), but I need those naps too. They provide the only precious moments I have to sit on the couch, uninterrupted and free from the “Mommy, I need you” calls.
Of course, sticking to our sleep schedule comes with its own set of challenges. For instance, beach vacations can be a real headache. Loading up snacks, a tent, and two sunscreened kids only to announce, “NAP TIME!” after one hour of sandy fun is frustrating for everyone. I’m well aware of the groans from both my children and my adult family members. I get it; it’s tempting to skip nap time just this once. However, my family prioritizes our sleep schedules. Nap time is essential for our well-being—parents and kids alike. I refuse to give up those rejuvenating moments for a few extra minutes in the sun. I know the consequences of overtired kids, and I’d rather avoid a sandy disaster.
We adhere to our schedule, and that applies to bedtime too. I’ve fought the battle of overtired children too many times to ignore the signs now. My kids don’t get to stay up late for one last movie, nor do we linger for dessert if it means returning home past their bedtime. My father used to say, “You can’t hoot with the owls if you want to soar with the eagles.” In other words, if you want to regret your choices, stay up late with toddlers.
If my husband and I plan a late-night outing, it’ll be without the kids. That’s what babysitters are for. By 8 PM—okay, fine, let’s say 9 PM—those little munchkins will be tucked into bed, dreaming of candy, puppies, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.
Call me strict. Call me a buzzkill. Call me uptight. I couldn’t care less. I’ll be here on the couch during nap time, sipping a hot cup of coffee and enjoying the glorious silence. In our family, we have a sleep schedule, and we stick to it.
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Summary
In the whirlwind of parenting, maintaining a strict sleep schedule for my kids is non-negotiable. While I may seem laid-back, the reality is that prioritizing their naps helps keep our household sane. I refuse to compromise on nap and bedtime, understanding the chaos that ensues when they miss out on sleep.