Baby Sleep by Age — Complete Guide
Understanding how much sleep your baby needs at each stage of development helps establish healthy sleep patterns and prevents overtiredness. Sleep needs change dramatically in the first few years of life as the nervous system matures.
Recommended Sleep Hours by Age (AAP Guidelines)
| Age | Total Sleep | Night Sleep | Naps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn (0–2 months) | 14–17 hours | 8–9 hours | Multiple (30–90 min) |
| Infant (4–6 months) | 12–15 hours | 10 hours | 3 naps |
| Infant (6–12 months) | 12–14 hours | 10–12 hours | 2 naps |
| Toddler (1–2 years) | 11–14 hours | 10–12 hours | 1 nap |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 10–13 hours | 10–12 hours | 0–1 nap |
Signs Your Baby Is Overtired
- Difficulty falling asleep despite being clearly tired
- Excessive fussiness or crying without obvious cause
- Rubbing eyes, pulling ears, or yawning frequently
- Staring blankly or becoming very quiet
Safe Sleep Guidelines (AAP 2022)
- Always place baby on their back to sleep (reduces SIDS risk by 50%)
- Use a firm, flat mattress in a safety-approved crib or bassinet
- Keep soft bedding, pillows, and bumpers out of sleep area
- Room-sharing (not bed-sharing) is recommended for at least 6 months