Sleep Schedule for 4-6 months old infant
Recommended Daily Schedule
Wake up, feeding, playtime
Nap 1 (60-90 minutes)
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Wake from Nap 1, feeding, playtime
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Nap 2 (60-90 minutes)
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Wake from Nap 2, feeding, quiet playtime
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Nap 3 (30-45 minutes, a 'cat nap')
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Wake from Nap 3, feeding, bedtime routine prep
Duration: First two naps: 60-90 minutes each. Third nap: 30-45 minutes (a 'cat nap').
Begin bedtime routine
Bedtime
Bedtime
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wake Time
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM
Sleep Pattern Visualization
Frequently Asked Questions
How much nap sleep should my newborn (0-3 months) be getting?
Newborns typically sleep a lot, often between 14-17 hours in a 24-hour period, divided into many short sleep sessions. Naps can be anywhere from 20 minutes to 3 hours, and they are usually quite disorganized at this stage. Instead of a strict schedule, focus on following your baby's sleepy cues and ensuring appropriate awake windows (usually 45-90 minutes) between naps. Don't worry if there's no pattern yet.
My baby only takes short naps (30-45 minutes). Is this normal, and how can I make them longer?
Short naps are very common, especially in the first few months, as babies are still developing the ability to connect sleep cycles. It's often called 'nap limbo' and is perfectly normal! To encourage longer naps, ensure a dark sleep environment, a full tummy before napping, and try putting your baby down drowsy but awake. While consistency helps, some babies are naturally short nappers, and that's okay as long as they are otherwise happy and healthy.
When should I start trying to establish a consistent nap schedule for my baby?
For newborns (0-3 months), it's best to follow their sleepy cues and flexible awake windows rather than forcing a schedule. Around 3-4 months, you might start to notice a more predictable rhythm emerge. True 'schedules' with fixed nap times usually develop closer to 4-6 months as babies consolidate sleep and transition from 4-5 naps down to 3 naps per day. Focus on consistent pre-nap routines (like a quiet activity or dimming lights) from early on to help signal sleep.
Should I wake my baby from a nap if they're sleeping 'too long', or let them wake naturally?
In the newborn phase (0-3 months), it's generally recommended to wake your baby if they've been napping for more than 2-3 hours, especially if they are not gaining weight well or if very long naps are interfering with their night sleep or feeding schedule. For older babies (3+ months) who are gaining weight appropriately and have established night sleep, you can often let them wake naturally, unless an unusually long nap is pushing bedtime too late. Always consider your baby's overall sleep needs and hunger cues.
My baby resists naps or only falls asleep while being held. How can I encourage independent napping?
Many babies prefer to nap on a parent! To encourage independent napping, establish a consistent pre-nap routine (e.g., quick diaper change, dim lights, lullaby). Ensure a safe sleep environment (flat on their back in a crib or bassinet). Try putting them down drowsy but awake in their sleep space. If they fuss, you can offer gentle reassurance (patting, shushing) or use age-appropriate sleep training methods if you choose. Consistency, patience, and creating a calming sleep environment are key.