0–24 Month Baby Sleep Schedule by Age | Newborn & Baby Sleep Patterns

One of the most common questions parents ask is: “How much sleep does my baby need?”

Understanding baby sleep patterns can feel confusing, especially during the first months of life. Some babies sleep for longer stretches while others wake frequently during the night. Parents often worry their baby is not getting enough sleep or that something is wrong with their sleep schedule.

The truth is that sleep patterns change rapidly during the first two years of life. Newborn babies sleep very differently from older infants and toddlers. Their sleep cycle, sleep needs, and ability to settle back to sleep all develop gradually.

Understanding how babies' sleep changes from 0 to 24 months can help parents create healthy sleep habits and support better sleep for the whole family.

If you would like help understanding your baby’s routine, you can explore the Parenting Hub's free tools, which include helpful sleep guides and development resources for parents.

 

Understanding Baby Sleep Patterns - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep Schedule by Age

During the early months, a child's sleep patterns are very different from those of adults.

Newborn babies do not yet have a clear daytime sleep and nighttime sleep rhythm. Instead, they sleep in short periods throughout the day and night.

Newborn sleep is made up of shorter sleep cycles, which means babies wake more frequently. Active sleep is common during this stage, during which babies may move, twitch, or make sounds.

As babies grow and their brains develop, sleep becomes more organised, and they gradually begin to sleep longer stretches at night.

 

Newborn Sleep (0–3 Months)

During the first few months of age, newborn babies sleep a lot. However, their sleep happens in short blocks rather than long stretches.

Typical newborn sleep patterns include:

• 14–17 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period
• Frequent waking for feeding
• Sleep cycles lasting around 40–50 minutes
• Daytime sleep spread across several naps

Newborn babies often wake every 2–3 hours to feed. Because their stomachs are small, frequent feeding helps them grow and stay healthy.

At this stage, parents should focus on safe sleep practices and creating a calm sleep environment rather than strict schedules.

 

Infant Sleep (3–6 Months) - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep by Age

By around three months of age, many babies begin to develop more predictable sleep habits.

At this stage, babies may begin to:

• Sleep longer stretches at night
• Develop more regular sleep behaviours
• Start recognising bedtime cues
• Have more consistent day sleep periods

Babies still need frequent naps during the day, but their sleep cycle begins to lengthen slightly.

Many infants start forming an early bedtime routine, which helps signal that it is time for sleep.

 

Baby Sleep (6–12 Months)

Between six and twelve months of age, a child's sleep continues to mature.

Many babies at this stage:

• Sleep around 12–15 hours in total
• Take two daytime naps
• Begin sleeping longer periods at night
• Develop clearer sleep behaviours

Some babies may start to sleep through the night, though it is still normal for infants to wake occasionally.

Around 6 months old, babies may experience changes in sleep development, sometimes referred to as sleep regressions. These changes are linked to brain development and the acquisition of new skills.

Providing a consistent sleep environment and bedtime routine helps babies settle more easily.

If your baby struggles to settle or wake frequently, gentle sleep guidance from Parenting Genie can help parents better understand sleep development.

 

Toddler Sleep (12–24 Months) - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep Schedule by Age

As babies grow into toddlers, their sleep needs gradually decrease, but good sleep remains essential for child health and development.

Typical toddler sleep includes:

• Around 11–14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period
• One daytime nap
• Longer periods of nighttime sleep
• Greater ability to settle independently

At this stage, toddlers often develop stronger sleep habits and bedtime routines.

A predictable routine before bed, such as reading, quiet play, or calming sounds, helps toddlers prepare for sleep.

Some families find soothing audio helpful during bedtime. Soft lullabies from Genie Lullaby can support a calm environment and help babies and toddlers settle into quiet sleep.

 

Creating a Healthy Schedule - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep Schedule by Age

Although every baby is different, creating a flexible sleep routine can help babies to sleep better.

Healthy sleep habits usually include:

• A consistent routine
• A calm sleep area
• Recognising tired cues
• Encouraging self-settling when developmentally appropriate

Babies often sleep better when they feel secure and relaxed before bedtime.

Parents sometimes worry that their baby is not sleeping as much as other babies. However, sleep needs vary, and some babies simply require slightly more or less sleep than others.

If your baby wakes during the night, gentle reassurance and consistent routines can help them settle back to sleep.

 

Why Baby Sleep Changes - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep Schedule by Age

Sleep changes are a normal part of sleep during the first two years of life.

Growth spurts, developmental milestones, teething, and changes in feeding can all affect a child's sleep.

For example:

• Learning to roll or crawl can temporarily disrupt sleep
• Teething may cause discomfort at night
• Developmental leaps can change sleep routines

These changes are temporary and usually resolve as babies adjust.

Understanding what happens at each stage can help parents feel more confident in supporting their baby. Common sleep challenges can be overcome.

 

When to Seek Help for Sleep Problems

Occasional sleep disruptions are normal. However, if sleep problems persist or significantly affect family wellbeing, it may help to seek support.

Parents may wish to speak with a health professional or child health nurse if:

• Their baby struggles to settle regularly
• Sleep problems persist for many weeks
• Their baby seems overly tired or irritable
• Sleep difficulties affect feeding or growth

Professional support can help identify underlying causes and provide practical guidance.

 

Supporting Better Baby Sleep

Helping your baby develop healthy sleep habits takes time and patience.

Simple strategies that support good sleep include:

• Following a consistent bedtime routine
• Creating a quiet and dark sleep environment
• Recognising tired cues early
• Supporting naps during the day

Some babies may naturally sleep longer stretches earlier than others. Every baby develops at their own pace.

By understanding infant sleep from 0–24 months, parents can feel more confident supporting their child’s sleep development.

 

Final Thoughts - 0–24 Month Baby Sleep by Age

Understanding your child's sleep can make the early parenting journey much easier.

From newborn sleep through toddlerhood, sleep development changes quickly as babies grow. While night wakings and irregular schedules are normal during the early months, babies gradually learn to sleep better and settle more easily.

With patience, consistent routines, and a supportive sleep environment, most babies develop healthy sleep habits over time. Resulting in longer sleep hours at night.

If you would like extra guidance, you can explore helpful resources and parenting tools through Parenting Hub free tools, expert guidance from Parenting Genie, and calming bedtime sounds from Genie Lullaby to help support restful sleep for your baby.

Related reading: sleep schedules from birth to 12 months