Rest time in preschool settings has traditionally been associated with sleep. Yet, many children—especially as they approach school age—may not need or want to nap. For educators, this raises the question: how do we balance children’s individual needs with program requirements and the importance of downtime?
Principles of Best Practice
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Respect Individual Rhythms
- Recognize that children’s sleep needs vary widely. Some may require a nap, while others are naturally alert and engaged.
- Avoid forcing sleep; instead, provide choices that honor autonomy.
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Redefine “Rest”
- Rest does not have to mean sleep. It can mean quiet, calm, and restorative activities.
- Think of rest time as a pause in the day—a chance to recharge emotionally and physically.
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Create Zones of Choice
- Offer a designated quiet area with mats for those who want to sleep.
- Provide a “calm corner” with books, puzzles, drawing materials, or soft music for children who prefer quiet engagement.
Practical Strategies
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Quiet Play Options
- Picture books, audiobooks, or story CDs
- Gentle art activities (colouring, tracing, collage)
- Sensory trays with calming materials (sand, water beads, shells)
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Mindfulness and Relaxation
- Guided breathing or yoga stretches
- Listening to calming sounds (rainforest, ocean waves)
- Simple meditation stories
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Educator Role
- Model calmness—tone of voice, body language, and pacing matter.
- Scaffold self-regulation by teaching children how to relax without sleep.
- Document children’s choices and engagement during rest time as evidence of wellbeing and autonomy.
Benefits of a Flexible Approach
- Supports children’s emerging autonomy and decision-making.
- Promotes emotional wellbeing by reducing stress associated with forced sleep.
- Encourages inclusive practice, recognizing diverse cultural and family approaches to rest.
- Strengthens educator-child relationships through respect and trust.
Rethinking rest time is about shifting from a rigid expectation of sleep to a flexible, child-centred approach. By offering calm alternatives, educators can ensure that every child experiences rest in a way that meets their developmental needs—whether through sleep, quiet play, or mindful relaxation.
Further Reading
Using Calming Sounds to Support Rest Time in Early Childhood
Taking Children's Sleep Time Outside In Early Childhood Settings
Balancing A Child's Sleep Needs and Parental Preferences
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