Sleep Schedule for Infant, approximately 6-8 months old

Newborns (0-3 months) typically need a lot of sleep, around 14-17 hours total per 24 hours, with about 5-7 hours of that occurring during the day over 3-5 naps. These naps can be anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours. Instead of a strict schedule, focus on following wake windows (the time your baby can comfortably stay awake between sleeps), which are usually 45-90 minutes for this age. Look for sleepy cues like yawning, rubbing eyes, or staring blankly to know when it's time for the next nap.

For the first 2-3 months, newborns are not ready for a strict schedule. Focus on consistent 'eat, play, sleep' routines and following their individual wake windows. You can start introducing more predictability around 3-4 months when their circadian rhythm begins to develop. At this point, you can aim for more consistent nap times, but still remain flexible as your baby's needs will continue to change. Look for patterns in their sleep and wakefulness to gently guide them towards a more structured day.

Short naps are very common, especially in the early months, as babies learn to connect sleep cycles. Some babies are naturally 'short nappers.' To encourage longer naps, ensure a good sleep environment (dark, cool, quiet), check that their wake window wasn't too long or too short before the nap, and try to put them down drowsy but awake. If they wake after a short nap, you can try to resettle them by gently patting or shushing. Sometimes, just accepting one short nap and one longer nap is the reality for many babies, and that's perfectly okay.

It's very common for new babies to prefer napping while being held, as they find comfort in closeness. If you want to transition to the crib, start by creating a consistent nap routine (e.g., diaper change, book, cuddle). Ensure the crib is a safe, dark, and cool sleep environment. You can try putting them down drowsy but awake. If they cry, you can offer comfort in the crib, like a hand on their chest or gentle shushing, before picking them up if needed. Gradually increase the time you wait before picking them up. Consistency is key, but be patient and understand it may take time, and some 'contact naps' are perfectly okay if they work for your family.

Don't stress! Life happens, and flexibility is crucial with a new baby. If a nap is missed or cut short, prioritize getting your baby to sleep as soon as they show sleepy cues for the next nap, even if it's earlier than usual. You might need to adjust bedtime earlier that evening to prevent overtiredness, which can lead to more disrupted night sleep. The most important thing is to get back on track the next day by returning to your usual routines and nap windows without dwelling on the missed sleep.