Baby sleep changes rapidly during the first year of life. While some babies sleep for long stretches early on and others wake frequently, both patterns are normal. Understanding how sleep develops month by month can help you feel more confident and reassured during this ever-changing stage.
How much sleep do babies need in the first year?
Many parents worry about whether their baby is sleeping enough. The truth is that baby sleep varies widely, and the figures below are only averages. If your baby sleeps a little more or less than this, it is usually nothing to worry about.
Average baby sleep by age
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Newborns (0–8 weeks): around 16–18 hours over 24 hours
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Up to 16 weeks: around 14–15 hours per day
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Around 6 months: up to 14 hours, including night sleep and naps
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8–10 months: usually 1–2 daytime naps, with most sleep happening at night
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9–12 months: often 1–2 naps, with longer night sleep
Baby sleep in the first three months
In the early weeks, babies sleep around the clock with no real distinction between day and night. Their sleep tends to come in short stretches of around three to four hours, followed by periods of wakefulness.
This is completely normal and serves an important purpose. Newborns spend much of their sleep in light REM sleep, which allows them to wake easily when they need feeding, comfort or a nappy change. Night waking at this stage is not a problem to fix, but a natural part of newborn development.
It can be exhausting for parents, but over time these short sleep periods slowly begin to link together, particularly at night.
How sleep develops up to six months
From around eight weeks, many babies start to sleep slightly longer stretches at night, while daytime naps remain shorter. By four months, deeper sleep phases begin to develop, meaning sleep can become a little more settled.
That said, babies will still wake at night to check that everything feels safe, or because they are hungry. Around this stage, some babies begin to fall back asleep on their own, while others still need reassurance from a parent. Both are normal.
By around six months, some babies manage stretches of sleep lasting up to six hours at night, although many will still wake more frequently.
Sleep from six to twelve months
Between six and twelve months, daytime sleep usually reduces. Most babies move towards one or two naps during the day, with the longest stretch of sleep happening overnight.
Between eight and ten months, sleep can feel more unsettled again. Developmental milestones, such as crawling, standing or teething, can temporarily disrupt sleep. Earlier bedtimes and consistent routines can help during these phases.
By around one year old, some babies sleep for up to eight hours at night, although night waking is still developmentally normal.
Sleep regressions are normal
Sleep is not something babies learn once and then master forever. Just like learning to crawl or talk, sleep develops in stages and often includes setbacks.
Illness, growth spurts, separation anxiety or changes in routine can all cause temporary regressions. When this happens, it helps to stick to familiar bedtime rituals and offer comfort and reassurance. Comparing your child’s sleep to others can add unnecessary pressure, as every baby is different.
A gentle reminder for parents
There is no single “right” way for a baby to sleep. Some babies sleep longer stretches early on, while others need more support well into toddlerhood. What matters most is that your baby feels safe, secure and cared for, and that you find routines that work for your family.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for my baby to wake up several times a night?
Yes. Night waking is normal throughout the first year and beyond, particularly in the early months.
When will my baby sleep through the night?
Some babies sleep for longer stretches from around six months, but many do not consistently “sleep through” until much later.
How many naps should my baby have?
This depends on age. Newborns nap frequently, while older babies usually move towards one or two naps a day by the end of the first year.
Should I worry about sleep regressions?
No. Regressions are a normal part of development and usually temporary.
