Every baby is unique, and so is their sleep journey. While there’s no exact timetable for when naps will change, many children follow similar patterns. Knowing when and how to adjust can make the transition smoother for everyone.
Naps by Age:
3–5 months: 3–4 naps, depending on nap length
5–7 months: 3 naps
7–16 months: 2 naps
16 months–3 years: 1 nap
Around 3 years: Many children no longer need naps, but quiet time can still be valuable
Signs It’s Time to Drop a Nap:
You might notice:
Your little one isn’t tired at bedtime
Naps are getting shorter
They wake for long periods during the night
Early morning waking becomes common
Adjusting to the Change
As a parent, I remember finding nap transitions tricky—knowing my child needed less day sleep but still facing a few overtired days during the adjustment. As a sleep consultant, I’ve seen that most children adapt within about 3 days. Consistency, patience, and an earlier bedtime during the change can make the process much easier.
If you need help with your little ones naps book a free call.