A new study conducted at the University of Colorado and published in the Journal of Sleep Research has found that toddlers who miss daytime naps may be at risk for developing mood disorders later in life.  The study, which involved toddlers aged 30 to 36 months, found that missing even a single daily nap caused anxiety and reduced levels of happiness.  Toddlers who were deprived of their nap also showed less interest in their surroundings and a decrease in problem-solving abilities.

The study concluded that getting enough sleep is a basic need for toddlers, just like nutrition, and is critically important in helping young children get the most out of experiences that foster their development.  Read complete details about this study on the University of Colorado at Boulder website.

If you have trouble getting your toddler to nap, watch this YouTube video to get some valuable tips.