Sleep Schedule for 17 month old

Yes, at 17 months, many toddlers are in the process of transitioning from two naps to a single midday nap. Signs they are ready include consistently refusing or fighting the second nap (or even the first), taking a very long time to fall asleep for a nap, or having difficulty falling asleep at night if they do take the second nap. If they're showing these signs, you can start the transition by gradually pushing their morning nap later, or offering a single nap around lunchtime (typically between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM). It can take a few weeks for them to fully adjust, so be patient and focus on consistent wake windows around the new single nap.

Nap refusal at this age can be due to a few factors. It might be: 1. **Developmental leaps:** They're too excited to practice new skills (walking, talking) or experiencing separation anxiety. 2. **Under-tiredness:** They're not tired enough. Extend their wake window before the nap by 15-30 minutes. 3. **Over-tiredness:** They're overtired and their body releases cortisol, making it harder to calm down. Ensure their wake window isn't too long. 4. **Transitioning to one nap:** As mentioned, they might be ready to drop their second nap. 5. **Change in routine:** Any recent changes can disrupt sleep. Maintain a consistent nap routine, offer a calm sleep environment, and ensure they have enough physical and mental stimulation during their wake windows.

For a 17-month-old on one nap, the ideal schedule typically involves a single nap taken mid-day. Most parents aim for the nap to start between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM, after a wake window of about 5-6 hours. The ideal duration for this single nap is generally 1.5 to 3 hours. A nap shorter than 1.5 hours might indicate they need a slightly later start time or a longer wake window before the nap. Ensure their wake window before bedtime is then around 4-5 hours to prevent overtiredness at night.

Short naps can be frustrating! Here are strategies to help lengthen a 17-month-old's single nap: 1. **Check wake windows:** Ensure they are tired enough, but not overtired. A wake window of 5-6 hours before the nap is common. If they're undertired, push the nap start time later. If overtired, bring it earlier. 2. **Consistent nap routine:** A calming pre-nap routine (e.g., diaper change, story, dark room) signals it's time to sleep. 3. **Optimal sleep environment:** Make sure the room is very dark (blackout curtains are key), cool (68-72°F or 20-22°C), and quiet, perhaps with white noise. 4. **Nap 'rescue':** If they wake early, try to help them fall back asleep with a gentle pat or by replacing their pacifier (if used), without taking them out of the crib immediately. Sometimes they just need a moment to connect sleep cycles.

Naps are crucial for healthy nighttime sleep. A well-rested toddler who gets enough nap sleep is less likely to be overtired at bedtime, which often leads to difficulty falling asleep, more night wakings, or early morning wakings. If their nap is too short or too late, it can negatively impact nighttime sleep. A nap that is too long or too late in the day can push bedtime back too far, leading to a late night. Conversely, a missed or very short nap often means an earlier bedtime is necessary to prevent overtiredness. Consistent nap timing and appropriate nap length help regulate their circadian rhythm, leading to more predictable and restorative nighttime sleep.