In CA we need to provide at least one 2 hour rest period for young children in our care. I think trying to force a a 6 year old to sleep on a mat for that long if they are not tired is bad but if the child is tired according to the NAEYC it is unethical to keep them up during a rest time just because they are older. I will have in my rules that children under 5 (children who are not yet in Kindergarten) will be required to take a nap- but if I notice a 4 or 5 year old frequently does not fall asleep than I will try to come up with a quite activity such as reading, coloring, posibly watching a movie once in a while. but it is still group care and if the child cannot remain quiet during this time and are constantly making it difficult for others to sleep, than they will need to lay on a mat quietly during that time. The other children have a right to a quiet environment to sleep in.

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