Operation: Story Time

I mentioned a few weeks ago that Leo tried to give up his nap.  We were miserable for a couple weeks, then we were happily (moderately so, at least) for a couple weeks and then it became clear once again that Leo NEEDS a nap still.  He will survive without one, but will get clumsy and emotional at night time and will get dark circles under his eyes if he goes a couple days without a nap.  Still, he was refusing to go down for these much-needed rests.

One day, after a fruitful trip to our neighborhood library, I promised Leo I would read him as many books as he wanted in a row.  I read him ten books (I know because we had checked out ten and we were on the last one) and sometime during the tenth story he fell fast asleep.  I tried the same strategy the next day - and this time made a point of reading in a soft, monotone voice - and sure enough, he fell asleep again.

After a few days of getting him to fall asleep during these prolonged story times on the couch I told him that I needed to put Zoe down to sleep, and if he would like me to read to him he could join us in my bed.  He was suspicious at first, but I assured him that he didn't have to sleep if he didn't want - just rest - and I would read him as many books as he wanted.  He resisted at first, but it was an offer he couldn't refuse.  Usually, I'm a tough negotiator - "Five books, then mama needs a break from reading.  I can read more later." He knew it had to be too good to be true, but he couldn't be pass it up.

Now, each day around 2 pm is our "Story Time."  I tell him it's time for Zoe's nap, and if he's quiet he can join us and I will read him any books he wants.  Nine times out of ten he will fall asleep.  It's not ideal.  I must have read a thousand books in the last few weeks, but he's getting a lot more rest.  Of course reading book after book in a purposefully unaffected voice puts me to sleep, too.  Eh, there are worse things that napping along with two cute kids.