Key takeaways: Newborn naps are irregular. Many babies settle into about 3 to 4 naps by 4 months, 3 naps around 6 months, and 2 naps somewhere around 7 to 9 months. Most move to 1 nap between 12 and 18 months. Ages vary a lot. Signs of readiness include fighting a nap, short naps, or bedtime battles for a week or more.
As babies grow, they can stay awake longer, and the number of naps drops.
Typical Patterns
Research shows big variation between babies, so treat these as rough guides:
- Newborn to 3 months: frequent, irregular naps.
- 3 to 5 months: often 3 to 4 naps.
- 6 to 8 months: often 3 naps, moving toward 2.
- 8 to 12 months: usually 2 naps.
- 12 to 18 months: most move to 1 nap.
Signs Your Baby May Be Ready to Drop a Nap
These signs should last a week or two, not just a day or two:
- Taking a long time to fall asleep for a nap.
- Playing or fussing instead of sleeping.
- Short naps that were previously longer.
- Skipping the last nap regularly.
- Trouble falling asleep at bedtime.
- Waking very early.
How to Make the Change
- Stretch wake windows gradually, by about 15 minutes every few days.
- Use an earlier bedtime temporarily to avoid overtiredness.
- Expect a few rough days while your baby adjusts.
- Allow flexibility: some days may need the extra nap.
Temporary Dips Aren’t Always Transitions
Illness, teething, travel, new skills, and growth spurts can disrupt naps for a few days. Wait before dropping a nap.
Childcare Schedules
Daycares often have set nap times. Your baby may nap differently there. Coordinate with your provider.
The Bottom Line
Nap transitions happen gradually and at different ages. Watch for consistent signs and adjust slowly.
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Sources
- Galland BC, Taylor BJ, Elder DE, Herbison P. Normal sleep patterns in infants and children: a systematic review of observational studies. Sleep Med Rev. 2012;16(3):213-222.
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Healthy sleep habits; naps. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- Mindell JA, Owens JA. A Clinical Guide to Pediatric Sleep. 3rd ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2015.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
