Sleep Schedule for Infant (3 to 6 months old)
Recommended Daily Schedule
Wake up for the day
Nap 1 (First wake window: ~1 hour 45 minutes)
Duration: The first two naps typically last 1 to 2 hours each. The third nap is often shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes.
Nap 2 (Second wake window: ~2 hours)
Duration: The first two naps typically last 1 to 2 hours each. The third nap is often shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes.
Nap 3 (Third wake window: ~2 hours)
Duration: The first two naps typically last 1 to 2 hours each. The third nap is often shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes.
Bedtime routine begins (Final wake window: ~3 hours)
Bedtime
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Wake Time
6:30 AM to 7:30 AM
Sleep Pattern Visualization
Frequently Asked Questions
How many naps should a newborn or young infant be taking each day?
For newborns (0-3 months), naps are frequent and often short, usually 3-5 naps spread throughout the day, following their natural sleepy cues. By 3-6 months, babies typically consolidate to 3-4 naps, and by 6-9 months, many are on a solid 2-nap schedule. Focus on age-appropriate wake windows (e.g., 60-90 minutes for newborns) rather than strict times, as overtiredness can make napping harder.
My baby only takes short naps ("catnaps"). How can I help them nap longer?
Short naps are very common, especially in the first few months as babies' sleep cycles are still maturing. Ensure the nap environment is conducive to sleep: a dark room, white noise, and a comfortable temperature. Watch for sleepy cues (yawning, rubbing eyes, zoning out) to put your baby down *before* they become overtired. Sometimes, a 'nap rescue' (holding or rocking them back to sleep after they stir) can help extend a nap. As they get older, their sleep cycles mature, and naps naturally tend to lengthen.
How can I establish a more predictable nap schedule for my baby?
Consistency is key. Start by observing your baby's natural wake windows and sleepy cues. Aim for a consistent, calming pre-nap routine (e.g., diaper change, book, dim lights, lullaby) to signal it's naptime. Offer naps at roughly the same times each day, based on their wake windows, even if they don't always take to it perfectly. Don't be afraid to adjust based on their needs, especially during growth spurts or developmental leaps. Patience and flexibility are important.
What are the signs my baby is ready to drop a nap, and when does this usually happen?
Babies typically drop naps in stages: from 3 naps to 2 (around 6-9 months), and from 2 naps to 1 (around 12-18 months). Signs they are ready include consistently resisting a particular nap, taking a long time to fall asleep for a nap, having trouble falling asleep at bedtime, or waking earlier from their nighttime sleep, even after a good day of naps. When you notice these signs, try to stretch wake windows slightly and consolidate sleep into fewer, longer naps.
What should I do if my baby consistently resists or refuses to nap?
First, check for common culprits: overtiredness (try putting them down earlier) or undertiredness (stretch the wake window slightly). Ensure the nap environment is dark, quiet, and cool. Consider a brief, calming pre-nap routine. If they resist sleeping, a 'calm-down' period in the crib or bassinet can sometimes help, even if they don't fully sleep. If all else fails, a contact nap, nap in a carrier, or stroller can be better than no nap at all, as sleep begets sleep. Consistency and patience are vital, and it's okay to have off days.