(average 0.0)

BabySignsWithElizabeth says (Mar-5-09):

My rule is they nap or have "quiet time" until they start Kindergarten. My 2 year old resists sometimes, but I put the emphasis on quiet time rather than him having to sleep. He gets a couple books to look at in his bed and I check on him regularly.

Interactive books are great for this to keep them entertained. Try the "Safe at Home" and "Safe at Play" interactive books at http://www.babysignsprogram.com/withelizabeth/ they are brand new and brilliant! They are board books so they won't be torn up during quiet time. They ask questions about safety and give your child three possible answers. If your child answers correctly the green traffic light lights up and they are rewarded with cheers and clapping, if they get it wrong the red light lights up and they are encouraged to try again.

(average 5.0)

tracyl says (Mar-5-09):

My oldest used to "resist a rest" pretty vigorously. She didn't want to miss anything. She'd protest how she wasn't tired, and didn't need a nap. I wouldn't argue with her. I'd just tell her "I know. I'd just like to have a little snuggle with you." She had a weakness, (her personal Kryptonite)... She could not stay awake if I touched her. So, I'd tell her we were just going to have a little snuggle and I was going to close my eyes for a little while. We'd lay down with a light blanket, usually on my bed. Then I would drape my arm over her, or put my hand on her back... and within a few minutes she was sawing logs! Then I could either stay and rest a bit longer if I needed to, or get up and get something done.

(average 0.0)

AJMcCreary says (Feb-26-09):

I agree with Snick, but if you need the break just require your daughter to have an hour of quiet time. She needs to go sit on her bed and be quiet, have her pick out a few books to look at, play soft music. Tell her its her special time to relax and take a break. Don't fight with her either, your the Mom- your the boss! you can even have your older child do this. Make it a reading hour. Good luck!

(average 0.0)

snick says (Feb-26-09):

I have three kids and each one of them had different needs when it came to napping. My youngest never really napped after age 1, as it was to hard to get her down, and she really didn't need it either. My saving grace has always been that I make my kids go to bed earlier rather than later. Until age 5 they go to bed at 7 PM as we all need a rest and a break!