12 Month Old Sleep Schedule
By Angelica Videla — Certified Baby and Toddler Sleep Consultant, London | Supporting families across the UK, Europe, US, and Australia
Quick answer: At 12 months, most babies are still on 2 naps with wake windows of 3–4 hours. Total sleep is around 12.5–13.5 hours. The 2-to-1 nap transition is approaching but usually happens between 13 and 15 months — don't rush it.
What does a 12 month old sleep schedule look like?
At 12 months, your baby is approaching toddlerhood but still needs a structured 2-nap day in most cases. Wake windows are longer, and daytime sleep is gradually decreasing.
Sample Schedule
The 2-to-1 nap transition
Many parents wonder if their 12 month old is ready to drop to 1 nap. In most cases, the answer is not yet. True readiness for the 2-to-1 transition usually appears between 13 and 15 months.
Signs your baby might be getting close: consistently fighting the second nap for 2+ weeks, taking a very long first nap (2+ hours), or bedtime becoming very late.
If you drop the second nap too early, you may see increased night wakings, early morning wakings, and more overtiredness overall.
Night sleep at 12 months
Most 12 month olds are capable of sleeping through the night without feeds. If your child is still waking frequently, it is almost always linked to how they fall asleep at bedtime.
If night wakings are an issue: Baby Waking Every Hour
The 12 month regression
Walking, new words, growing independence — your baby's brain is busy at 12 months. This can lead to temporary sleep disruptions including nap refusal, longer settling times, and new night wakings.
As with all regressions, consistency is key. Don't introduce new habits you don't want to maintain long-term.
Tips for 12 month sleep
- Keep 2 naps unless your baby has shown consistent signs of readiness for 2+ weeks.
- Stretch wake windows gradually if naps or bedtime are becoming a battle.
- If sleep has been disrupted for a while, gentle sleep training can help you get back on track.
Need help with your 12 month old's sleep?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many naps should a 12 month old take?
Most 12 month olds still need 2 naps per day. While some babies start resisting the second nap around this age, the 2-to-1 transition typically happens between 13 and 15 months.
What are the wake windows for a 12 month old?
Wake windows at 12 months are typically 3 to 4 hours. The first window is around 3 to 3.25 hours, and the last before bedtime is around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Should I drop to 1 nap at 12 months?
Usually not. Many parents assume nap resistance means it is time to drop a nap, but 12 months is often too early. Dropping the second nap before your baby is ready can lead to overtiredness, more night wakings, and early morning wakings.
Is there a 12 month sleep regression?
Yes, many babies experience a regression around 12 months, often linked to walking, increased independence, and sometimes a brief period of nap resistance. Staying consistent with routines helps this pass more quickly.
How much sleep does a 12 month old need?
Around 12.5 to 13.5 hours total in 24 hours, split between 11 to 12 hours at night and 2 to 2.5 hours of daytime naps.
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