A predictable baby sleep schedule is something most parents want by the second month, and while every baby is different, average sleep needs follow clear patterns through the first year.
Newborns sleep in short bursts. Longer stretches and proper day-night rhythm develop gradually over the first six months.
Newborn to 3 months
Newborns sleep 14 to 17 hours in 24, split into short cycles of 2 to 4 hours. Day-night confusion is normal until around 6 to 8 weeks.
3 to 6 months
Most babies now sleep 12 to 15 hours total, with three naps and longer night stretches. A simple bedtime routine — bath, feed, dim lights — starts to help.
6 to 9 months
Two longer naps, around 9 to 10 hours of night sleep and total sleep of 12 to 14 hours. Many babies are ready for a more structured day at this point.
9 to 12 months
Two naps continue, sometimes dropping to one near 12 months. Night sleep is usually 10 to 12 hours, with brief wake-ups still common.
Helping the schedule along
Consistent wake-up times, exposure to daylight in the morning, and a calm bedtime routine do more for a baby sleep schedule than any single trick.
Further reading: moomie
