How Important is Sleep for Babies and Toddlers?
For parents of infants and toddlers, sleep can feel like a battle. From sleepless nights with newborns to toddlers resisting naps, navigating sleep during the first two years of life can be one of the most challenging—and important—tasks in parenting. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), sleep during this critical developmental window is more than just rest; it plays a pivotal role in physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
Keep reading for a guide to understanding the importance of sleep for children 0-24 months old, how much they need, and practical strategies to ensure they get it.
Why Sleep Matters for Infants and Toddlers
Sleep for babies isn’t just about giving parents a break—it’s a vital biological process that promotes brain development, immune health, and physical growth. According to the AAP, the majority of brain development occurs during the first two years of life, and sleep plays a critical role in this process.
During sleep, the brain forms connections that support memory, learning, and emotional regulation. Growth hormone is also released during deep sleep, aiding in the physical development of bones, muscles, and tissues. For infants and toddlers, adequate sleep can also help reduce the risk of illness by strengthening the immune system.
Conversely, sleep deprivation can lead to irritability, difficulty feeding, and disruptions in developmental milestones. Over time, chronic sleep issues can contribute to behavioral problems and delays in cognitive development.
How Much Sleep Does Your Child Need?
The AAP provides specific recommendations for sleep based on a child’s age:
• Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps.
• Infants (4-12 months): 12-16 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps.
• Toddlers (12-24 months): 11-14 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps.
It’s important to note that sleep at this age doesn’t occur in long stretches—particularly for newborns, who wake frequently for feedings and diaper changes. As children grow, their sleep patterns begin to consolidate, and they develop the ability to sleep through the night.
For more details, visit the AAP’s guidelines on infant sleep needs.
Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits (0-12 Months)
Building healthy sleep habits starts early. While newborns have unpredictable sleep schedules, you can begin laying the foundation for good sleep hygiene in the first few months.
1. Create a Consistent Routine:
Even young infants benefit from predictable routines. A calming pre-sleep ritual—like a warm bath, gentle rocking, or reading—can signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.
2. Focus on Sleep Safety:
The AAP emphasizes that safe sleep practices are critical for reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). These guidelines include:
• Placing babies on their backs to sleep.
• Using a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
• Avoiding loose bedding, pillows, or soft toys in the crib.
For more information on safe sleep practices, visit the AAP’s Safe Sleep Recommendations.
3. Promote Day-Night Awareness:
Help your baby differentiate between day and night by exposing them to natural light during the day and keeping the environment calm and dim in the evening.
Supporting Sleep for Toddlers (12-24 Months)
As children move into their second year, they develop more independence—which can sometimes make sleep routines challenging. However, consistency remains key.
1. Stick to a Schedule:
Toddlers thrive on structure. Aim to keep bedtimes and wake-up times consistent, even on weekends. A predictable nap schedule is also important at this age.
2. Limit Stimulation Before Bed:
Avoid overstimulating activities, screens, or sugary snacks in the hour leading up to bedtime. Opt for quiet play, books, or lullabies instead.
3. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment:
Your toddler’s bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet. Consider blackout curtains and white noise machines to create a calming atmosphere.
Common Sleep Challenges and How to Address Them
1. Night Wakings (0-12 Months):
Frequent night wakings are normal in the first year, particularly for younger infants who need to feed at night. If your baby continues waking after 6 months and doesn’t seem hungry, try gradually reducing nighttime feeds or offering comfort without picking them up.
2. Sleep Regressions (4-24 Months):
Sleep regressions are common at certain developmental milestones (around 4 months, 8-10 months, and 18 months). These temporary disruptions are often linked to new skills, such as crawling or walking. During these times, stick to your routine and offer extra comfort when needed.
3. Separation Anxiety (12-24 Months):
Around the one-year mark, toddlers may resist sleep due to separation anxiety. To ease this, establish a soothing bedtime routine and offer reassurance with a consistent goodnight phrase or a favorite comfort item like a blanket or stuffed animal.
When to Seek Help
If your child consistently struggles with sleep despite your best efforts, consult your pediatrician. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless sleep, can affect even very young children and may require medical intervention.
The AAP encourages parents to address sleep concerns early, as untreated sleep issues can interfere with growth and development. For additional resources, check out the AAP’s Sleep Guidelines for Children.
Final Thoughts
The first two years of life are a period of rapid growth and change, and sleep is a critical part of that process. By prioritizing healthy sleep habits and understanding your child’s needs, you can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of good rest and overall well-being.
Remember, no two children are exactly alike when it comes to sleep. Stay patient, flexible, and proactive, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your pediatrician when needed.
For more expert tips and recommendations, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics or HealthyChildren.org.