Nap time is better than extra class time. Here’s why.

I teach preschool that’s meant to be mostly socialization and fun for kids who often are usually at home with their parents. I’m a firm believer in the “greater good”, and at the beginning of the year I was so worried if these kids weren’t learning enough to go on to kindergarten when the time comes. Elementary schools in my area are so backed up that kindergarten age kids are waiting until the middle of the year to go.<br><br>I did a lot of research and determined the best way to make sure these kids didn’t fall behind. I structured my day to include a 30 minute power nap at the end of the day. I extended the class length to make up for the nap.<br><br>To my surprise these kids were retaining information so much better and faster. They didn’t seem as overwhelmed or burdened. They responded to lessons much more attentively and eagerly.<br><br>I had one student who was non verbal when he started with me. His mom even said he was non verbal at home and was diagnosed with a speech delay. Within a month and a month and a half he was saying a few words. Fast forward 3 months and the kid was talking in full sentences.<br><br>Nap time is absolutely better than extra class time. Research it for yourself.