How much sleep does your newborn need? Ages and Stages

Debbie Fazio
  |  
April 9, 2019

Almost all new parents are overwhelmed and stressed - hey, it’s a lot to take care of a newborn! Add to that the worry that your little one is not getting enough sleep. We get it, that’s stressful. Below is a rough guide of approximately how much sleep your baby needs by age.

Keep in mind that your baby must be eating well to encourage longer sleeps, and that parents should always speak to their doctor or a sleep consultant for more specific information on their situation.  No two babies are the same, so this will vary some for each child. And never forget, you are not alone. Sleep consultants offer a wealth of experience, support and help. Get the advice and guidance you and your newborn need to sleep peacefully and calmly. Sweet Dreams!

Babies 0-2 months

Newborns will spend more of their time sleeping and may only be awake for 30-60 minutes at a time, depending on how long they can handle being happy and awake. Your baby should be sleeping approximately 8-10 hours in the day, with feeds in between, and an additional 8-10 hours per night, which may also include 2-3 feeds.

Babies 2-4 months

At this age, babies may start to shorten their day sleep, but have longer stretches overnight. Babies of this age should be sleeping approximately 7-9 hours in the day, with feeds in between,  and approximately 8 hours overnight, with possibly 1-2 feeds.

Babies 4-8 months

Now you’re finally hitting the age where you can start to work towards a regular schedule! This might look something like: a 1.5-2 hour nap in the morning and again in the afternoon, 1 short evening nap of around 30-60 minutes, and finally sleeping through the night for 10-12 hours with 0-1 feeds.

Babies 8-12 months

Your baby will likely eliminate their final evening ‘catnap’ and only sleep 2 times a day from about 1.5- 2 hours per nap, then sleep through the night for approximately 10-12 hours.  

Babies over 12 months

Congratulations on making it through the first year! At this stay, your baby will likely move to 1 nap a day, ranging from 1.5-2 hours, and will sleep through the night for 10-12 hours.

Debbie Fazio

Debbie Fazio is Parenting Coach and President of Precious Moments Babeez. She is a Board Certified Advanced Sleep Consultant and has been helping families in over 20 different countries navigate through their parenting journey!

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