Sleep Schedule for 4 years 8 months old
Recommended Daily Schedule
Wake up and start the day
Optional quiet time/rest or short nap (e.g., 30-60 minutes, if needed)
Duration: 30-60 minutes (if a nap is still taken, it's typically a single, shorter one)
Bedtime routine begins, aiming for sleep by 8:30 PM
Bedtime
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Wake Time
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM
Sleep Pattern Visualization
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for a 4-year-8-month-old to start dropping their nap?
Yes, it's very common for children between 4 and 5 years old to transition out of daily naps. Some children will drop their nap completely, while others might still need it occasionally (e.g., after a very active morning, on weekends, or if they haven't slept well at night). Look for signs like consistently refusing to nap, taking a long time to fall asleep for a nap, or not being tired even when they skip a nap.
If my child is no longer napping, what's a good alternative to ensure they get enough rest?
If your child has dropped their nap, replace it with 'quiet time' or 'rest time.' This means having them spend 45-60 minutes in their room with quiet activities like books, puzzles, drawing, or audio stories. The goal isn't necessarily sleep, but rather a period of quiet downtime to recharge and prevent overtiredness, which can negatively impact nighttime sleep.
My child still naps, but it's very short (e.g., 30-45 minutes). Is this enough, or should I try to extend it?
At this age, a 60-90 minute nap is typical for those who still nap consistently. If your child's nap is shorter but they wake up refreshed, are not moody or overtired later in the day, and their nighttime sleep is good, then it might be sufficient for their individual needs. However, if they are still showing signs of fatigue, ensure their nap environment is dark and quiet, and maintain a consistent pre-nap routine to encourage longer rest periods.
How does dropping the nap affect nighttime sleep? Should bedtime be earlier?
Absolutely. When a child drops their nap, their total sleep needs shift entirely to nighttime. You will almost certainly need to move their bedtime earlier, often by 30-60 minutes or even more, to compensate for the lost nap sleep. Watch for signs of overtiredness (hyperactivity, moodiness, 'second wind' at bedtime) and adjust bedtime accordingly to ensure they get enough sleep and avoid night waking or early morning wakings.
My child is refusing naps but seems tired and moody by late afternoon. What can I do?
This is a common dilemma. It indicates they still need rest, even if they resist napping. Continue to offer 'quiet time' as a non-negotiable part of the day, even if they don't sleep. Ensure their morning activities are stimulating enough but not over-stimulating. If they consistently skip the nap, prioritize an earlier bedtime. Sometimes, a very short 'power nap' in the car or stroller (if you're out and about) can temporarily help, but a structured quiet time at home and an earlier bedtime are key long-term strategies.