18-24 Month Sleep Schedule

    Naps, wake windows, and bedtime

    12-18 mo2-3 yr

    Total daily sleep

    12-14 hours

    7:00-7:30 PM

    Bedtime

    6:30-7:30 AM

    Wake time

    Night sleep

    10-12 hours (typically 0-1 wake-up, many sleep through)

    Naps (1)

    Nap 112:00-1:00 PM · 1-2 hours

    Wake windows

    5-6 hours between sleep periods

    Tips for this age

    • Establish a consistent bedtime routine (bath, book, cuddles) to signal sleep time
    • Transition to one nap if not already—most toddlers consolidate to a single midday nap by 18 months
    • Use a visual schedule or picture chart to help them understand bedtime expectations
    • Offer choices within boundaries ('Red pajamas or blue pajamas?') to build cooperation at bedtime

    Common challenges

    • Separation anxiety and difficulty with bedtime transitions
    • Increased defiance and testing limits around sleep routines
    • Early morning wake-ups (5:00-6:00 AM) due to increased activity levels
    • Nap resistance as independence grows

    What changes next

    Around age 2-2.5 years, many toddlers drop their nap entirely or resist it frequently. Bedtime may also shift slightly later as wake windows continue to extend. Stay flexible and watch for signs of tiredness rather than strictly adhering to schedule.

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