MATERNAL PERCEPTIONS OF NAPS IN YOUNG CHILDREN

Abstract Introduction Sleep in young children affects both family functioning and maternal mental health and well-being. However, little is known about parental perceptions about daytime sleep. Thus, the aims of this study were to determine maternal perceptions of (1) naps overall, and (2) how naps impact child and maternal functioning. Methods Mothers of 465 infants and toddlers (4-36mos; M=18.5mos) completed an online questionnaire addressing questions about maternal nap perceptions, as well as the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire–Revised (BISQ-R). Global nap perceptions were categorized as positive or negative. Perceived impact on mother and child was also assessed. Results Overall, 95% (n=440) reported that their child napped. The majority of mothers agreed that naps were important (98.2%). Over one third (38.9%) wanted to change something about their child’s naps and 28% reported that naps are a problem. Furthermore, the majority of mothers believed that naps were an important part of their child’s day (94.6%), and that when they nap well their child is in a better mood (97.3%), more easy-going (95.7%), has fewer tantrums (88.7%), and is a better listener (84.4%, toddlers). Fewer mothers reported that their child’s nap is frustrating (21.8%) or are more trouble than they are worth (4.1%). Just under half wished their child fell asleep faster/easier for naps (49.0%), and one third wished they napped longer (35.5%).Finally, the majority of mothers believe that their child’s naps are an important part of their own day (94.1%), improve their own mood (87.1%) and make them feel more calm (89.9%). When their children nap, mothers can nap themselves (51.0%), get more done in the house (91.5%), get more work done (87.4%), spend more time with others (77.9%), and spend more time doing things for themselves (79.5%). Conclusion Overall, the vast majority of mothers believe that their child’s naps are important for their child, as well as for themselves. However, one third report that their child’s nap is problematic, almost one half want to change something (e.g., that their child fell asleep faster/more easily and napped longer). Future studies are needed focusing on interventions for daytime sleep issues to improve both child and family functioning. Support (If Any) Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., Skillman, NJ, USA