When to Drop a Nap

Naps naps naps. The best thing ever…. orrrrr the most stressful thing ever. If you’re struggling with chronic short naps, make sure to read this blog all about short naps.

At first, your newborn is likely sleeping and napping all the time (probably in your arms for the most part). This is totally normal, but as they get older, they can tolerate a little bit more awake time, and drop those naps. 

The first year will see the most changes with naps, with schedules and daily routines likely changing every 1-2 months! After about 9 months old, things start to settle into a consistent 2 nap routine, and around 13-18 months they’ll drop to a nice 1 nap schedule… usually until they are around 3 years old (yay)! 

OK, BUT WHEN DO I KNOW WHEN MY BABY NEEDS TO DROP THEIR NAP? SURELY IT’S DIFFERENT FOR EVERY BABY?

That is totally right. Every baby is different, but there are averages to help you out a bit!  First of all, you want to make sure they are at the right age to drop the nap. See the infographic below: 

Other than age, there are several other ways of knowing when it might be time to drop your child’s nap! The following table shares some tell-tale signs of a needed transition, however, if you feel you’re already constantly experiencing these challenges, it MAY not be due to just needing to drop a nap. 

IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY, MAKE SURE TO LEARN ALL ABOUT THE FOUNDATIONS OF BABY SLEEP BY TAKING MY FREE NIGHT WAKINGS EMAIL COURSE HERE!

If you notice your little one is around the right age and they are showing the following signs, see graphic below, it might be time to drop a nap…

YOUR BABY COULD EXPERIENCE ALL OF THESE SIGNS, OR JUST ONE OR TWO. EVERY BABY IS DIFFERENT, OF COURSE. 

Make sure to give it a couple of weeks before making any schedule/routine changes. Dropping a nap too early can cause lots of other challenges… Remember, there is no rush!! 

Your baby could be experiencing short naps or early mornings because of a sleep regression (download my free Sleep Regression Mini Course here), teething (read the teething blog here), sickness, or they just may be having an “off” few days! That is totally normal and healthy for them, so try not to jump to conclusions too quickly.

WANT TO GET BETTER SLEEP?

I have a lot of resources for you! I’ve worked with families who are up every 2 hours, every 4 hours, replacing the pacifier, nursing, whatever it is, I can help you go from surviving to thriving!  I can help you get your baby/toddler sleeping 11-13 hours straight (with age appropriate feedings if needed).

Depending on your individual needs and your budget, I have something to help you get your family sleeping all night...

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