My three-year-old has no interest in taking an afternoon nap. At what age do most children stop napping? Any tips on making the transition from nap to no nap?

Children today simply sleep less than those in past generations. Just ask Grandma. Kids in the United States stop napping between ages two and four, and studies show that they sleep less than children in other countries, partly because they're overstimulated. Even babies and toddlers go to play groups these days, and Mom and Dad take their baby, toddler or preschooler to nurseries everywhere--at church, in the shopping mall and at the health club. Many children also go to day care, where they're surrounded by activity eight hours a day.

Children need stimulation, of course, but maybe we give them too much of a good thing. With all this excitement, it's difficult for a little body to quiet down for sleep. But don't give up on naps yet: Children who don't get enough sleep can't cope and are more susceptible to illness.

TAKE IT EASY
To get your child to nap, you may first have to slow down the pace of your own day, because a growing child can't keep up with an adult's schedule. If you haven't done so already, you'll want to develop a positive, quiet, and calming naptime and bedtime routine. That means no yelling or threats if your child doesn't fall asleep. Even if she stays awake, she can look at books quietly in bed and still get some rest.

If you do decide to put an end to naps, be prepared for a cranky child in the early evening hours, and don't expect exemplary behavior as your child adjusts to a new schedule. She may fall asleep at 7 P.M. but wake up at the crack of dawn. This transition will be tough on you, too, because you'll miss those quiet hours to yourself in the middle of the day.

Read more about sleep in these books: SOLVE YOUR CHILD'S SLEEP PROBLEMS by Richard Ferber and THE SLEEP BOOK FOR TIRED PARENTS: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO SOLVING CHILDREN'S SLEEP PROBLEMS by Rebecca Huntley.