Caring for your little one’s sleep can feel overwhelming, especially when every baby book, expert, or well-meaning friend seems to give different advice. This FAQ is here to offer you clarity, reassurance, and practical answers you can actually use. Remember: every baby is unique, and there’s no one “right” way to help your child sleep.

General Baby Sleep

How much sleep does my baby need?

Sleep needs vary by age:

• Newborns (0–3 months): 14–17 hours per day, broken into short stretches.

• Infants (4–12 months): 12–16 hours, including naps.

• Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours, usually split between nighttime sleep and naps.
  These are averages. Your baby may fall slightly outside these ranges and still be healthy.

When will my baby sleep through the night?

Many babies can begin sleeping longer stretches between 4–6 months, depending on development, feeding, and sleep habits. Keep in mind that sleeping through the night does not necessarily mean not having any night feedings. Babies can sleep through the night and still have 1 or 2 night feeds. “Sleeping through the night” usually means 6–8 hours, not necessarily 12.

Why does my baby wake so often at night?

Frequent waking can be due to hunger, discomfort, developmental leaps, teething, or simply because babies cycle through lighter sleep more quickly than adults. It’s normal, especially in the early months. If your baby is waking often at night and is over 4 months, they could be experiencing the 4 month sleep regression and be looking for help to get back to sleep. If that is the case, that is the perfect time to integrate a form of gentle sleep teaching.

Is it okay to rock or feed my baby to sleep?

Absolutely! it’s natural and comforting for babies. However, if your goal is independent sleep, you may want to gradually shift away from these associations so your baby can fall back to sleep without needing help every time

Is it safe to swaddle or use a sleep sack?

Swaddling is safe for young infants (until they show signs of rolling). After that, switch to a sleep sack or wearable blanket to keep your baby warm while reducing risks.

Sleep Training

What is sleep training?

Sleep training is the process of teaching your baby to fall asleep independently and return to sleep during the night without needing as much help from you. There are many approaches—from very gentle to more structured.

When can I start sleep training?

I like to aim for 3.5 - 4 months. This gets baby sleep independently before the dreaded 4 month sleep regression shows up. Sleep training at this age will also involve 1-2 night feedings, and baby falling asleep independently after them. Before then, focus on creating healthy sleep foundations like routines and safe sleep habits.

Does sleep training mean I have to let my baby cry it out?

Not at all! There are many methods, ranging from no-cry or low-cry approaches to timed check-ins. The right method depends on your comfort level, your baby’s temperament, and your family’s needs.

How long does sleep training take?

Some babies adjust in just a few nights, while others take a couple of weeks. Consistency is key. Sticking with a chosen method helps your baby learn what to expect. All of my clients see dramatic improvement by about 2 weeks.

Can sleep training harm my baby?

Research shows that sleep training, when done in a supportive and safe way, does not harm babies. In fact, improving sleep can benefit both your baby’s development and your family’s well-being. Sleep training is helping your child learn the skill of independent sleep. It is done FOR them and not TO them.

Naps + Routines

Do I need a bedtime routine?

Yes! Babies and toddlers thrive on predictability. A calming routine (bath, pajamas, feed, story, song) helps signal to your child’s body and brain that it’s time to wind down.

How many naps should my child take?

• Newborns: Frequent naps (up to 5–6 per day)

• Around 6 months: 3 naps

• 8–18 months: 2 naps

  (try to hold onto 2 naps as long as possible. The 12 month sleep regression can make parents think that it is time to switch to 1 nap. Ride the regression through a week, and it should get better.)

• 15–18 months: Transition to 1 nap

• By 3 years: Many toddlers are ready to drop naps, though some still need them. Hold onto the nap as long as possible. If it starts impacting night sleep, then transition to quiet time.

Why are naps so important?

Daytime sleep prevents overtiredness, which can lead to bedtime struggles, night waking, or early rising. Well-rested kids usually sleep better at night. Children under 3-4 years old, are not physically able to go 12 hours without resting in between. Naps help give babies the rest they need and break up the day into manageable pieces.

Toddler Sleep

My toddler resists bedtime—what can I do?

Offer choices (which pajamas, which book) to give them a sense of control, and keep routines consistent. Avoid screen time 1–2 hours before bed, and use calm, clear boundaries.

How do I handle bedtime fears or separation anxiety?

Validate their feelings (“I know the dark feels scary”), use night lights if needed, and reassure them with comfort objects like a lovey. Keep goodbyes short and confident.

Should I move my toddler to a big kid bed?

I recommend not moving them until after 3 years old. Children under 3 lack the ability to understand invisible boundries. If your toddler climbs out of the crib or asks for a bed, it may be time. Otherwise, keeping them in the crib longer can mean better sleep.

Troubleshooting Sleep Challenges

Why does my baby wake up so early in the morning?

Common causes include too-late bedtime, too much or too little daytime sleep, or sunlight in the room. Try blackout curtains, white noise, and small schedule shifts.

How do I handle night feeds during sleep training?

Many babies still need a feed or two under 6–9 months. You can keep these feeds while working on independent settling, then gradually reduce them with your pediatrician’s guidance.

My baby’s sleep suddenly got worse! What’s happening?

This may be a sleep regression, often linked to growth, teething, or milestones. Stay consistent with routines, offer extra comfort, and know it’s temporary.

What if my baby only naps for 30 minutes?

Short naps are common under 6 months. As your baby grows, focus on wake windows, nap-friendly environments (dark, cool, quiet), and practicing independent settling to help lengthen naps.

Baby and toddler sleep is a journey. It’s sometimes smooth, sometimes rocky. What matters most is that your child feels safe and loved, and that you find strategies that support your family’s well-being. Progress doesn’t always look perfect, and that’s okay.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. With the right tools, consistency, and encouragement, better sleep is possible for your little one, and for you.