Baby Sleep Schedule by Age: From Newborn to 12 Months

Sleep is essential for your baby’s growth, development, and overall health. Understanding the typical sleep patterns by age helps parents create a structured routine, promote better sleep habits, and ensure their baby gets enough rest throughout the day and night.

1. Newborn (0–2 Months)

• Sleep duration: 14–17 hours per day, usually in 2–4 hour stretches.
• Pattern: Irregular sleep with no clear day-night difference.
• Tips: Place baby on their back for safe sleep, use a firm mattress, and avoid loose blankets or toys.
• Nap routine: Multiple naps during the day; follow baby’s cues.

2. Infant (3–5 Months)

• Sleep duration: 12–16 hours per day, including nighttime and naps.
• Pattern: Longer stretches at night (4–6 hours), 3–4 daytime naps.
• Tips: Begin establishing a simple bedtime routine, such as bathing and reading.
• Safe sleep: Continue placing the baby on their back and avoid loose bedding.

3. Baby (6–8 Months)

• Sleep duration: 12–15 hours per day.
• Pattern: Nighttime sleep usually 6–8 hours; 2–3 naps during the day.
• Tips: Encourage self-soothing to reduce frequent night waking.
• Safe sleep: Remove soft objects and keep the sleep area free of hazards.

4. Baby (9–12 Months)

• Sleep duration: 12–14 hours per day.
• Pattern: Nighttime sleep 10–12 hours; 1–2 naps during the day.
• Tips: Consistent bedtime and nap schedule helps regulate circadian rhythm.
• Safe sleep: Ensure crib safety and maintain a comfortable sleep environment.

Tips for Healthy Baby Sleep

• Follow a consistent bedtime routine: Bathing, feeding, and soothing activities signal sleep time.
• Respond to your baby’s cues: Crying, rubbing eyes, or yawning indicate readiness for sleep.
• Encourage daytime naps: Proper nap schedule prevents overtiredness, which can disrupt nighttime sleep.
• Safe sleep practices: Always place the baby on their back, avoid loose bedding, and maintain a firm sleep surface.
• Room environment: Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature for optimal sleep.
• Gradual adjustments: As your baby grows, adapt the sleep schedule to meet developmental needs.

Sample Sleep Schedule by Age

Age	Nighttime Sleep	Daytime Naps	Total Sleep
0–2 months	2–4 hours per stretch	Multiple short naps, on demand	14–17 hours
3–5 months	4–6 hours per stretch	3–4 naps	12–16 hours
6–8 months	6–8 hours	2–3 naps	12–15 hours
9–12 months	10–12 hours	1–2 naps	12–14 hours

Understanding your baby’s sleep needs at each stage is crucial for their growth and your well-being. Following age-appropriate sleep schedules, establishing consistent routines, and practicing safe sleep habits can help your baby rest better, develop healthy sleep patterns, and thrive.

References

• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Healthy Sleep Habits for Babies. AAP
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Baby sleep: 6 tips for better rest. Mayo Clinic
• National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Baby sleep patterns and schedules. NHS