What can you do to make a smooth transition from mealtime to resttime for preschoolers?

First: No processed sugar at mealtime. Balanced meals with a little protein, a little carbs, and some fresh fruit. And get some milk in there: the l-tryptophan (sic?) in milk aids in sleep.

Second: Kids understand and are comforted by routine. So, have a routine. Sounds easier than it is, I know (three kids of my own), but you have to do it. Perhaps it's eat, then snuggle with mom while reading a book, then naptime. Just make sure there's a routine that includes something calming -- not physical play.

Third: After nap time, don't go straight to a "fun" activity. You know, don't promise a trip to the park after the nap. That just gets the poor little guy/girl all hyped up about what's to come. Again, keep a routine. We used to do the lunch, story, nap thing followed by "help time", and our kids would help fold clothes, wipe a counter, or some other tiny chore you know you're going to have to do over for them when they're not looking ; ).

Fourth: Discipline. For you. Set the routine and stick with it. Might not....no, it most assuredly will not, work the first time. Or two. Or three. But, with persistence, you'll get the kids on a schedule that they can work with.

Hope this helps.

My preschooler calms down after lunch with story time. Sit down with the child, read aloud to him/her. This usually works for me!

Have them use the restroom, get a drink of water, have soothing music in the background, and read a story to them.

Have play time in between! Burn off mealtime and crash for rest time. :D

when i taught preschool i played an enya CD and this made most of them sleepy fast!

I used to put a couple drops of vodka in their milk when I was a teacher. Some might be object to that method but it works. Just don't tell anyone.

Have them rest first then eat! It's not good to eat and then lay down!

laying on a blanket and watching a movie