Sleep Schedule for 12-15 Months (Early Toddlerhood)

Most toddlers transition from two naps to one between 12 and 18 months. Look for signs like consistently fighting the second nap, taking a long time to fall asleep for either nap, or the second nap pushing bedtime too late. They might also start refusing one nap but not seem overly tired. When you see these signs, you can gradually shift the morning nap later by 15-30 minutes every few days until it becomes one longer, midday nap, usually starting between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM.

Short naps (under an hour) are common at this age but can be frustrating. First, ensure their wake window before the nap isn't too short (under-tired, causing short naps) or too long (over-tired, leading to difficulty settling or fragmented sleep). Aim for approximately 3.5-5 hours of awake time before their single midday nap. Optimize their nap environment to be dark, quiet, and cool. For established short nappers, try a 'nap extension' technique: go in immediately when they stir from a short nap and try to resettle them by patting, shushing, or offering comfort to help them connect to another sleep cycle.

Nap refusal at 1 year old can stem from several factors. It might be a sign they're ready to transition from two naps to one if you haven't already. Developmental milestones like walking or increased language can also cause sleep disruptions due to new skills excitement. Separation anxiety is also very common around this age and can make settling for naps difficult. Stick firmly to your consistent pre-nap routine to signal sleep time, offer a calm environment, and ensure their wake window is appropriate for their current needs. If they refuse, offer 'quiet time' in their crib or room instead of immediately giving up, as this still provides rest and reinforces the expectation.

After transitioning to one nap, a typical schedule for a 1-year-old involves a single midday nap. This nap usually starts sometime between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM and can last anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours. This means a wake window of approximately 5-6 hours before the nap and 4-5 hours between the end of the nap and bedtime. While consistency in timing is key, remember that nap length can vary day-to-day. Don't worry if it's not perfectly rigid; focus on following your child's sleepy cues within a generally consistent framework.

Teething, colds, or mild illnesses can definitely disrupt your 1-year-old's nap schedule, as their comfort levels and energy are impacted. During these times, prioritize comfort and rest over strict adherence to the schedule. Your child might need more sleep, so allow for an earlier nap or a slightly longer one if they're willing. Provide appropriate pain relief (if recommended by your pediatrician for teething discomfort) and focus on soothing them. Don't worry about 'ruining' their schedule; once they feel better, you can gently guide them back to their regular routine. Be flexible and patient, as their body is working hard to recover.