Bed Tips

Here's a general guideline for when kids might still need naps

Infants (0-12 months): Infants typically need multiple naps throughout the day, and their sleep patterns change rapidly during this stage. Newborns may sleep up to 16-20 hours a day, and as they grow, the number of naps decreases, and the length of each nap may increase. By the age of 6 months, many infants start to consolidate their daytime sleep into two or three naps.

Toddlers (1-3 years): Toddlers generally still need one or two naps during the day. Around 18 months to 2 years, you might notice a transition from two naps to one. By the age of 3, some children may start to outgrow the need for a daytime nap, while others may continue napping until they are 4 or even older. 

Preschoolers (3-5 years): Many preschoolers continue to benefit from a nap, although the duration may vary. Some children may still take a daily nap, while others may only nap occasionally or not at all. The focus shifts from daily napping to ensuring that the child gets enough nighttime sleep.

School-Age Children (6-12 years): Most school-age children no longer require a daytime nap. Instead, they need a consistent and sufficient amount of nighttime sleep, usually around 9-12 hours per night.

It's important to note that individual variations exist, and some children may have different sleep needs. Signs that a child might still need a nap include irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an overall decrease in mood when they miss a nap. Pay attention to your child's cues and adjust their sleep schedule accordingly to ensure they are getting the right amount of restorative sleep.