A nap is a period of daytime sleep. Naps are an important part of a baby's total sleep, and the number of naps gradually falls from several a day in the newborn period to one, and then none, in the preschool years.
How much sleep do babies need?
The World Health Organization recommends the following total sleep in 24 hours, including naps:
| Age | Total sleep (including naps) |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | 14-17 hours |
| 4-11 months | 12-16 hours |
| 1-2 years | 11-14 hours |
| 3-4 years | 10-13 hours |
What you can do
- Watch for tired signs to time naps.
- Keep naps in a safe sleep space, on the back.
- Expect nap patterns to change several times in the first two years.
Frequently asked questions
It varies: many babies take 3 or more naps in the early months, 2 naps later in the first year and 1 nap in the second year.