Baby nap schedule by age
Pick your baby's age and wake-up time to see typical wake windows, how many naps to expect, and a sample day you can adjust around your baby.
Wake windows are typical ranges many parents and pediatric sleep guides use, not medical rules. Every baby is different, so watch for sleepy cues like yawning, eye rubbing, and staring off. Total sleep ranges for 4 months and up are from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Ask your pediatrician about any sleep concerns.
What is a wake window?
A wake window is the time your baby can comfortably stay awake between sleeps. Too short and they may not be tired enough to nap; too long and they can get overtired and fight sleep. Wake windows grow as babies get older, which is why nap schedules change so often in the first year. Use the ranges as a starting point and adjust by a few minutes at a time.
Common questions
How many naps does a baby need?
Most babies take 4 to 5 short naps at 1 to 2 months, 3 to 4 naps at 4 months, 3 naps at 5 to 6 months, 2 naps from about 8 or 9 months, and 1 nap somewhere between 13 and 18 months. Every baby moves through these at their own pace.
What is a wake window?
The time your baby can comfortably stay awake between sleeps. It grows from under an hour in newborns to 5 hours or more by the second year.
How much total sleep does a baby need?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends 12 to 16 hours in 24 hours, including naps, for babies 4 to 12 months, and 11 to 14 hours for toddlers 1 to 2 years. There is no recommendation for babies under 4 months because their sleep varies so widely.
Is this medical advice?
No. These are typical ranges to help you plan. Talk to your pediatrician about any sleep concerns, and always follow safe sleep guidance: alone, on their back, in a crib.
Know when the next nap is coming.
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