Napping Conumdrum

I would set up a pack-n-play in another room for the 2 year old. My 2 year old's schedule is almost identical to yours, and I think you'd find yourself going crazy if you had to deal with a grumpy toddler every evening. Plus, some quiet time for yourself is important as well. When my other kids stopped napping, we had the rule that they would still have some quiet time on their beds. They would sing and talk and read books, but that gave me the time I needed to recharge. Now that they are in school, during the summer we still have quiet time when they read or draw and I relax too. Good luck!

Is there a way you could set up a portable crib in another room of the house so the baby can nap as well as the toddler play or nap as usual?? I would do it this way for nap time until they are both at the same stage. Your first son should be going to preschool this coming year unless you are going to home school him. At that time you can always have the baby get used to napping in his own room. Just a thought, but not sure if it will work for you.

D.

I would keep the older one out while the baby naps. It's a good time for you to have special one-on-one quiet time - like reading stories - together. Whether or not either or both of you doze, you will still be resting and relaxing.

Hi G.-
Your older child is doing so well, I absolutely would not move anybody, much less a baby into his room. You could use a corner of your room for baby, or a corner of the living room. But I think that having the 3-month-old in his room will ruin your older one's routine and temper. I wouldn't do it at this age. S.

Setting up a pack-n-play in another room has worked well for us. I agree with you, it is a real disaster when the baby can't sleep. While they may do great together at night, nap time is something else. I currently have a 3 yr. old who "naps" (often quietly playing) in his older brothers room so that my 2 yr. old can nap. How insane would I be to think a 2 and 3 year old left alone in a room would actually sleep. I think it's good to give toddlers/preschoolers the chance to nap or at least rest, it's healthy for everyone!