When Do Babies Transition to Two Naps: Key Signs to Watch For?

ByMargaret Harrison Baby Sleep

As parents navigate the delightful yet challenging journey of raising a baby, sleep often becomes a central theme in their daily lives. One of the most common questions that arise is, “When do babies take 2 naps?” Understanding the sleep patterns of infants is crucial, not only for their development but also for the well-being of the entire family. As babies grow, their sleep needs evolve, and recognizing the right time to transition from multiple naps to a more structured schedule can make a world of difference for both parents and their little ones.

Typically, babies start with a rigorous napping schedule that includes several short naps throughout the day. As they approach the toddler stage, this schedule begins to shift, and many parents find themselves wondering when to consolidate those naps. This transition is not only about adjusting to fewer naps but also about ensuring that babies receive the right amount of restorative sleep to support their growth and development. The timing of this shift can vary widely from one child to another, influenced by factors like age, temperament, and overall sleep patterns.

In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate your baby may be ready for two naps, the developmental milestones that accompany this change, and tips for making the transition as smooth as possible. By understanding the nuances of your baby’s sleep needs,

Understanding Nap Transitions

As babies grow, their sleep patterns evolve, leading to changes in nap schedules. The transition from multiple naps to just two typically occurs between 6 to 12 months of age. During this period, parents may notice that their baby is able to stay awake longer and may show signs of readiness for fewer naps.

Several factors can influence this transition:

  • Age of the baby
  • Individual sleep needs
  • Daily activity levels
  • Developmental milestones

Signs Your Baby is Ready for Two Naps

Recognizing the signs that your baby is ready to drop to two naps can help facilitate a smoother transition. Look for the following indicators:

  • Increased wakefulness: Your baby may be able to stay awake for longer periods, often extending their awake time to 2-3 hours.
  • Resistance to nap: If your baby struggles to fall asleep for their morning or afternoon nap, it may indicate they are ready for a change.
  • Nighttime sleep improvement: If your baby begins to sleep longer stretches at night, it may signal that they are ready to reduce daytime sleep.
  • Skipping naps: Occasionally skipping a nap without becoming overly cranky can also be a sign of readiness.

Typical Nap Schedule for Two Naps

Once your baby transitions to two naps, a typical schedule may look as follows:

Time Activity
7:00 AM Wake up
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Morning Nap
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM Afternoon Nap
7:00 PM Bedtime

This schedule allows for adequate awake time between naps and promotes a consistent bedtime routine.

Tips for Managing the Transition

Transitioning to two naps can be challenging. Here are some strategies to ease the process:

  • Gradual adjustment: Slowly extend the time between naps by 15-30 minutes to help your baby adjust.
  • Consistent routine: Maintain a consistent daily schedule to help regulate your baby’s internal clock.
  • Observe cues: Pay attention to your baby’s sleep cues, such as rubbing eyes or yawning, and put them down for a nap when they show signs of tiredness.
  • Create a conducive sleep environment: Ensure that the sleeping area is quiet, dark, and comfortable to promote better nap quality.

By monitoring your baby’s behavior and adjusting their nap schedule accordingly, you can support their natural development and ensure they receive the necessary rest for growth and learning.

Transitioning to Two Naps

As babies grow, their sleep needs evolve. Most infants transition to taking two naps around the age of 6 to 9 months. This change is influenced by several factors, including their overall sleep requirements, developmental milestones, and individual temperament.

Signs That Indicate Readiness for Two Naps

Parents may notice specific signs that indicate their baby is ready to transition to two naps. These include:

  • Increased alertness during awake periods
  • Difficulty falling asleep for the third nap
  • Longer awake windows between sleep sessions
  • Consistent night sleep without frequent awakenings

Recognizing these signs can help parents implement a smoother transition to a two-nap schedule.

Typical Nap Schedule for Two Naps

A typical schedule for babies taking two naps generally follows a pattern that aligns with their natural sleep rhythms. Below is a sample daily schedule:

Time Activity
7:00 AM Wake up
9:00 AM Morning nap
10:30 AM Wake up
1:00 PM Afternoon nap
2:30 PM Wake up
7:00 PM Bedtime

This schedule can vary based on the individual child’s needs and the family’s routine.

Potential Challenges During the Transition

Transitioning to two naps may present challenges. Common issues include:

  • Overtiredness: Babies may become overtired if they are not ready for the transition, leading to difficulty sleeping.
  • Inconsistent nap duration: Naps might not always be of equal length, affecting nighttime sleep.
  • Resistance to napping: Some babies may protest their new nap schedule, requiring patience and consistency from caregivers.

Parents should expect some fluctuations as their baby adjusts, and it may take a few weeks to establish a reliable routine.

Strategies for a Successful Transition

To facilitate a successful transition to two naps, consider the following strategies:

  • Gradual adjustment: Slowly move the nap schedule, shortening the morning nap if needed to encourage the baby to take a longer afternoon nap.
  • Consistent sleep environment: Maintain a familiar and calming sleep environment to help signal naptime.
  • Observe natural sleep cues: Pay attention to your baby’s sleep cues to determine the best times for napping.

Implementing these strategies can help ease the transition and promote healthy sleep patterns.

the Transition Phase

By around 12 months, many babies will have established a stable two-nap routine, which typically continues until they are about 18 months old. At this point, parents may start to see signs that their child is ready to transition to one nap per day. Understanding these developmental changes can help parents support their child’s sleep needs effectively.

Understanding Baby Nap Patterns: Expert Insights

Dr. Emily Carter (Pediatric Sleep Specialist, SleepWell Clinic). “Most babies transition to two naps between six to nine months of age. This shift is often influenced by their increasing wakefulness and the need for a more structured sleep schedule.”

Lisa Tran (Child Development Expert, Parenting Today Magazine). “By the time babies reach around eight months, they typically require two naps during the day. This pattern supports their cognitive and physical development, allowing them to recharge adequately.”

Michael Jensen (Infant Sleep Consultant, Dreamy Nights). “The transition to two naps is not only about age but also about the individual baby’s sleep needs. Parents should observe their baby’s cues to determine the right time for this change, usually around six to eight months.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When do babies typically transition to two naps?
Babies usually transition to two naps between 6 to 12 months of age. This transition can vary based on the individual baby’s sleep needs and daily schedule.

How long should each nap be when a baby takes two naps?
Each nap should ideally last between 1 to 2 hours. This duration allows for adequate rest and helps prevent overtiredness.

What signs indicate that a baby is ready to drop to two naps?
Signs include consistently resisting one of the naps, taking longer to fall asleep, or showing signs of being well-rested after shorter nap durations.

Can a baby still need three naps after 12 months?
Some babies may still require three naps after 12 months, especially if they are not getting enough sleep at night or if they are going through growth spurts.

What is the best schedule for a baby taking two naps?
A common schedule includes a morning nap around 9 AM and an afternoon nap around 1 PM. However, this can be adjusted based on the baby’s wake time and sleep cues.

How can parents help their baby adjust to two naps?
Parents can help by establishing a consistent nap routine, creating a conducive sleep environment, and gradually shifting the nap times as needed to align with the baby’s natural sleep patterns.
In summary, the transition to two naps typically occurs between the ages of 6 to 9 months. During this period, babies generally begin to consolidate their sleep patterns, moving from three naps a day to two longer naps. This shift is often influenced by their growing ability to stay awake for longer stretches, as well as their increasing need for more consolidated sleep periods. Caregivers should monitor their baby’s cues, such as signs of tiredness or irritability, to determine the right time to make this transition.

It is important to recognize that each baby is unique, and the timing of this transition can vary. Some infants may adapt to two naps earlier, while others may continue with three naps until they are closer to 12 months old. Establishing a consistent nap schedule can help support the baby’s natural sleep rhythms and promote better nighttime sleep. Parents should remain flexible and responsive to their child’s individual needs during this developmental phase.

Additionally, creating a conducive sleep environment and establishing a calming pre-nap routine can enhance the quality of daytime sleep. Factors such as light, noise, and room temperature should be optimized to encourage restful naps. By understanding these dynamics, caregivers can better support their child’s sleep development and ensure they receive the necessary rest

Author Profile

Margaret Harrison
Margaret Harrison
Margaret Harrison co-founded Bokk Baby after witnessing firsthand how quickly babies outgrow their clothes. While serving as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer in Senegal, Margaret worked with midwives in a rural village to renovate a community health clinic, where over 40 babies were delivered each year. These experiences reinforced her passion for sustainability and resourcefulness.

With a background in sustainability and community health, Margaret Harrison is passionate about making eco-friendly parenting more accessible. Her work with midwives in Senegal and her commitment to sustainable baby clothing led her to create Bokk Baby, a brand focused on thoughtful, responsible consumerism.

Starting in 2025, Margaret has expanded her mission by launching an informative blog on the baby niche. Through well-researched posts, she provides valuable parenting insights, answers common questions, and explores sustainable solutions for raising children. Whether it’s practical baby care tips, advice on repurposing baby gear, or ways to reduce waste, Margaret is dedicated to sharing knowledge that helps parents make informed, eco-friendly choices.