As a parent, you know how important daily naps are for your child’s growth and development. When your little one naps at home, you’ve created a safe and cozy environment where they can rest peacefully. But at daycare, nap time happens in a different setting—one that’s supervised by caregivers and structured by state rules. That’s why it’s so crucial for parents to understand what safety standards daycares are required to follow to protect children during this quiet part of the day.
The Basics of Nap Time Rules in Texas Daycares
In Texas, licensed daycares must provide a supervised sleep or rest period after lunch for children 18 months or older unless a child’s individual physical needs require a different schedule. These nap periods are important, but clear limits and guidelines are in place to keep things safe.
For example:
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Nap time must not exceed three hours.
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Daycare staff cannot force children to sleep. This includes using physical force or inappropriate methods of discipline to make them lie down or stay asleep.
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Caregivers are also prohibited from giving children substances like Benadryl, melatonin, or any other medication to make them drowsy—unless it has been prescribed and approved in writing by a parent and healthcare provider.
If a child isn’t tired or refuses to nap, the daycare must offer a calm, quiet activity instead, such as reading or drawing. This approach respects the child’s needs while maintaining a peaceful environment for others to rest.
Safe Room Setups Matter During Nap Time
It’s not just about how caregivers handle nap time behavior, but also about how the nap area is arranged. Texas has specific safety standards for how nap equipment should be used in childcare.
Here’s what that includes:
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Nap mats, cots, and cribs should never block any exits or entrances. In the event of an emergency, staff must be able to evacuate children quickly and safely.
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Sleeping equipment should only be set up during nap time, not during play or learning activities. This helps keep the daycare space organized and free of unnecessary hazards.
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Nap mats must be arranged to allow a clear path for staff and children to walk. Caregivers should not have to step over sleeping children or other mats to reach a child or exit.
These rules were designed with your child’s safety in mind. When daycares follow them, nap time can be a restful and secure part of the daily routine. But unfortunately, that’s not always what happens.
When Nap Time Goes Wrong
At The Button Law Firm, we’ve worked with many Texas families whose children were injured, neglected, or even abused during nap time. We’ve seen cases where children were improperly restrained, unsupervised, or given unapproved substances to force them to sleep—all clear violations of Texas law and childcare safety standards.
No parent expects their child to be harmed at daycare, especially during something as routine as a nap. But if your child was seriously injured or mistreated during nap time, it’s important to speak up and take action.
What to Do If Your Child Was Injured During Nap Time
If you suspect that your child was hurt, neglected, or mistreated during nap time at daycare, we’re here to help. Our team works with families across Texas to hold negligent daycare centers accountable. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you understand what legal steps you can take to protect your child and prevent harm to others.
We also want to be a resource for parents who want to make informed decisions. If you’re searching for a daycare, don’t forget to download our free guide: 10 Tips for Finding a Safe Daycare. It’s filled with helpful information to empower you as you choose the right childcare provider.
Have Questions? Contact Us Today
If your child was injured during nap time or if you have questions about daycare safety, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at (214) 699-4409, email us at intake@buttonlawfirm.com, or contact us directly through our contact form. We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.
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