Infant Sleep Patterns

8 Facts About Infant Sleep Patterns

Newborns Sleep a Lot

Newborns typically sleep 14-17 hours a day, but this is broken into short periods of 2-4 hours at a time due to their need for frequent feedings.

Irregular Sleep Cycles

Infants have shorter sleep cycles than adults, spending more time in light sleep (active sleep) and waking frequently.

Day-Night Confusion

Many newborns are not born with a clear day-night rhythm and may sleep more during the day than at night initially.

Gradual Development of Circadian Rhythms

Around 3-4 months, babies start developing a more regular sleep-wake cycle as their circadian rhythm matures.

Sleep Regressions are Normal

Sleep regressions, often occurring around 4 months, 8 months, and 18 months, are temporary phases where a baby’s sleep patterns may change due to developmental milestones.

Safe Sleep Practices

Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep, on a firm surface, with no soft bedding or toys, to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Longer Nighttime Sleep Gradually Develops

By 6 months, many babies can sleep 6-8 hours at a stretch, though every baby is different.

Sleep Needs Change with Age

Sleep requirements decrease as babies grow:

0-3 months: 14-17 hours/day

4-11 months: 12-15 hours/day

1-2 years: 11-14 hours/day