2-3 Year Sleep Schedule

    Naps, wake windows, and bedtime

    18-24 mo

    Total daily sleep

    12-14 hours

    7:00-8:00 PM

    Bedtime

    6:30-7:30 AM

    Wake time

    Night sleep

    10-12 hours (typically consolidated, 0-1 wake-ups)

    Naps (1)

    Nap 11:00-2:00 PM · 60-120 minutes

    Wake windows

    5-6 hours between nap and bedtime; 10-12 hours from wake to nap

    Tips for this age

    • Maintain consistent bedtime routine with books, songs, or quiet time
    • Use a visual sleep schedule (pictures) to help toddler understand timing
    • Offer limited choices at bedtime ('pajamas or nightgown?') to build cooperation
    • Keep bedroom cool, dark, and free of stimulating toys; use white noise if helpful

    Common challenges

    • Nap resistance and testing boundaries at bedtime
    • Nightmares and vivid dreams starting around age 2.5
    • Difficulty separating from parents; increased bedtime requests
    • Daylight savings and travel disrupting established routines

    What changes next

    Around age 3-3.5, most toddlers drop to one nap, and you may notice increased independence (both positive and challenging) at bedtime. Sleep regressions can occur with developmental leaps in language and independence.

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