Sleep Schedule for Infant, typically 6-9 months of age

The number of naps varies significantly with age. Newborns (0-3 months) typically take 3-5 short, unpredictable naps. By 4-6 months, many babies consolidate to 3 naps (morning, afternoon, late afternoon). Around 7-12 months, most babies transition to a 2-nap schedule. Focus on observing your baby's sleepy cues and appropriate 'wake windows' (the time they can comfortably stay awake between sleeps) rather than strictly adhering to a number.

Short naps are very common, especially in the first few months, as babies haven't yet developed the ability to connect sleep cycles. To encourage longer naps, ensure the sleep environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Over-tiredness can also cause short naps, so be mindful of wake windows and try putting your baby down before they become overly tired. Some parents find success with 'nap extensions' by gently soothing their baby back to sleep (e.g., patting, rocking) if they stir at the end of a short sleep cycle.

Consistency is key for establishing a nap schedule. Start by observing your baby's natural sleepy cues (yawning, eye rubbing, staring blankly) and typical wake windows for their age. Aim for a consistent pre-nap routine (e.g., diaper change, quick cuddle, dim lights, white noise) to signal that sleep is coming. While flexibility is important, try to offer naps around the same time each day. A predictable routine helps babies understand what to expect and can lead to more settled sleep.

Don't worry too much! Life happens, and it's normal for nap schedules to go off track occasionally. If a nap is missed or cut short, try to offer an earlier bedtime to prevent your baby from becoming overtired, which can ironically lead to more night wakings. For minor disruptions, just get back on track with your usual nap routine the very next day. A single off-day won't derail all your efforts; consistency over time is what matters most.

Babies typically drop naps in stages. The transition from three to two naps usually occurs between 6-9 months, and from two to one nap between 12-18 months. You'll know it might be time to drop a nap if your baby consistently fights that particular nap, takes an unusually long time to fall asleep, or if the nap starts to significantly interfere with nighttime sleep (e.g., they struggle to fall asleep at night or wake much earlier). When dropping a nap, you may need to adjust the remaining nap times and offer an earlier bedtime to compensate for the extra awake time.