Sleep Schedule for 1 year 3 months old (15 months)

Many toddlers transition from two naps to one between 12 and 18 months, with 15 months being a very common age. Signs your 15-month-old might be ready include: consistently fighting the second nap, taking very short naps, falling asleep late at night, waking up earlier than usual, or having night wakings despite a good schedule. It's often a gradual process, where they might have some 2-nap days and some 1-nap days before fully settling into one nap.

Once your toddler has transitioned to one nap, the ideal timing is usually mid-day. A common schedule involves a wake-up around 6:30-7:00 AM, the single nap starting between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM, and lasting for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The key is to ensure an appropriate wake window before the nap (typically 5-6 hours) and after the nap (4-5 hours) before bedtime. This timing helps prevent overtiredness at bedtime and ensures they're tired enough for a good night's sleep.

Nap resistance at 15 months is common and can stem from several factors: it could be the nap transition (they're ready for one nap), developmental leaps (like walking or increased language skills making them want to explore more), separation anxiety, teething, or even being overtired or undertired. Sometimes, a schedule tweak is needed – perhaps moving the nap later by 15-30 minutes if they're undertired, or ensuring earlier bedtime if they're overtired. Consistency in the nap routine and environment can help too.

Yes, absolutely. If the single nap is too long or occurs too late in the afternoon, it can definitely interfere with nighttime sleep. A nap that's too long might reduce their sleep drive enough that they struggle to fall asleep at bedtime or wake up more frequently during the night. A nap ending too close to bedtime (e.g., after 3:30 PM or 4:00 PM, depending on your child's ideal wake window) can also push bedtime too late or make it harder for them to wind down. Aim for at least 4-5 hours of wake time between the end of the nap and bedtime.

Consistency is very important for a 15-month-old's sleep schedule. Toddlers thrive on predictability, and a consistent nap time helps regulate their internal clock, making it easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. Aim for the same nap start time each day, within a 15-30 minute window. While consistency is key, life happens! It's okay to have some flexibility for special occasions or outings. If a nap is missed or very short one day, focus on an earlier bedtime to prevent overtiredness, and then get back on track with your regular schedule the next day.