Wondering How Much Sleep Your Baby Needs?
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Wondering How Much Sleep Your Baby Needs?

Updated: Jul 14, 2023


Newborn Sleep Needs

As new parents, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of baby sleep. One of the most common questions new parents ask is, "how much sleep does my baby need?" The answer to this question depends on your baby's age and individual needs. In this article, I'll break down the recommended amount of sleep for babies at different ages and provide tips on how to ensure your baby is getting the rest they need to grow and develop.




Newborns (0-3 months)

During the first few months of life, newborns need a lot of sleep to support their rapid growth and development. Most newborns will sleep between 14 and 17 hours per day, although some may sleep as much as 20 hours per day. Newborns have very small stomachs and need to wake frequently to feed, so their sleep is often interrupted.

It is important to note that newborns' sleep cycles only last about 60 minutes. So, while they sleep many hours, they also wake very often. This is normal!

To help your newborn get the sleep they need, try to establish a consistent sleep routine. Keep the room dark and quiet during nighttime feedings and try to put your baby back to bed as soon as they finish eating. Consider using a white noise machine or swaddling your baby to help them feel secure and calm. I always suggest using swaddling sparingly only if baby is very difficult to settle.

Infants (3-12 months)

As your baby grows and develops, their sleep needs will change. From 3-6 months, most babies will sleep between 14 and 15 hours per day. By 6-12 months, most babies will sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day, including one or two naps during the day.

During this time, it's important to establish a consistent sleep routine and encourage healthy sleep habits. Make sure your baby has a comfortable and safe sleeping environment and avoid using any sleep aids or props that could pose a suffocation risk.

Toddlers (1-3 years)

Toddlers need between 11 and 14 hours of sleep per day, including one or two naps. Many toddlers will start to resist naps as they approach their second birthday, but it's important to continue offering a nap until your child is ready to drop it completely.

To promote healthy sleep habits for your toddler, establish a consistent bedtime routine and set clear boundaries around bedtime. Encourage your child to wind down with quiet activities like reading or singing and avoid any stimulating activities like screen time in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

Preschoolers need between 10 and 13 hours of sleep per day, including a nap for younger children. As children approach kindergarten age, they may start to drop their nap altogether.

To promote healthy sleep habits for your preschooler, continue to establish a consistent bedtime routine and encourage quiet and calming activities before bed. Make sure your child's sleeping environment is comfortable and safe and consider using a nightlight or comfort item if your child is afraid of the dark.

In summary, the amount of sleep your baby needs depends on their age and individual needs. As a general guideline, newborns need between 14 and 17 hours of sleep per day, infants need between 12 and 15 hours, toddlers need between 11 and 14 hours, and preschoolers need between 10 and 13 hours. To promote healthy sleep habits for your child, establish a consistent sleep routine, provide a comfortable and safe sleeping environment, and avoid any sleep aids or props that could pose a suffocation risk.




If you're a new mom looking for support and guidance, I'm here to help! As a virtual coach, I can provide you with personalized coaching services that cater to your unique needs and challenges. Whether you're struggling with breastfeeding, sleep training, or just adjusting to life with a newborn, I can offer you the tools and strategies you need to thrive as a new mom.





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