No pacifier, no afternoon nap. Is this normal?

My daughter did this when i took away her bottles for nap time at a yr and a half and even though she wouldnt sleep i still made her take quiet time . she had to stay on her bed quietly , id read to her then id leave her so she would play with her toys quietly. do this everyday during there usual naptime and soon enough they will start falling asleep again. It worked for me so its worth a shot. You might have to lay with him for the first few days until he understands what down time means and slowly leave him for 10 minutes at a time say"mommy will be right back " and come back check on him and soon enough youll find him asleep . Even if he doesnt sleep he is still getting some relaxation time and it might help.