The six-month mark is a turning point for many things, especially rest. You’ve probably been hoping for a more predictable sleep schedule by this time, and luckily, you can start working it out now. Let’s create a sleep schedule for your six-month-old so that they get the best nap times and nighttime rest.
The Ideal 6 Month Sleep Schedule
Knowing your baby’s needs and creating balance is key when crafting a 6 month sleep schedule. At this age, babies can sleep longer at night and begin to establish more predictable nap times. Here's an example of a great schedule:
Morning Wake-Up: 7:00 AM - Start the day bright and early!
First Nap: Around 9:00 AM - After about two hours awake
Second Nap: Around 1:00 PM - Post-lunch nap to get through the midday slump
Third Nap: Might be around 4:00 PM, but keep it short.
Bedtime: Aim for 7:00 PM – Begin winding down at 6:30 PM.
Why Wake Windows Matter
For six-month-olds, wake windows are about two to three hours long. When you recognize your baby’s signs of tiredness (eye rubbing, fussy) during these periods, you prevent them from getting overtired.
Typical Sleep Schedule for a 6 Month Old
A typical sleep schedule includes about 14-15 hours per day of total sleep with naps factored in. This might look like:
Nighttime Sleep: 11 hours (7pm-6am)
Nap Times :3-4 hours broken up over two or three naps
Establishing a Soothing Nap Routine
Day-time sleeping revolves around consistency in routine. It could look like this:
Quiet Time: Turn off the lights and do calm activities before sleeping.
Consistent Sleep Environment: Make sure the nap area is cool, dark, and quiet.
Pre-Nap Ritual: Songs, cuddles or reading a short book can signal that it’s time for a nap.
How Often Should a 6 Month Old Sleep?
On average, six-month-olds should get about 14-15 hours of sleep per day. This includes nighttime sleep along with two to three naps throughout the day to match their natural sleep cycles.
Fine-Tuning Your Baby's Sleep Schedule
Flexibility is key as you perfect your six-month-old's schedule. Here are some ways to keep adapting:
Adjusting Bedtime
If bedtime seems too late or early because your baby either seems overtired or too energetic, try shifting it by 15 minutes earlier or later until you find what works best for them.
Wake Windows for an 8-Month-Old
As eight months approaches, wake windows will extend. Start making small adjustments in your daily schedule to accommodate longer awake periods.
Preparing for Sleep Transitions
Many babies transition from three naps to two around six to nine months old. Help ease this change by gradually extending morning and midday wake windows so they can make it through with only two naps each day.
Wrapping It Up
Creating a sleep routine for a half-a-year-old is partly creative, partly scientific. It involves reading your child’s signs, sticking to what you know and experimenting when necessary. As you stumble through these tiring and sometimes tiresome times, keep in mind that each stage is just that — a stage. Throw in some patience and flexibility with every move and you’ll find a balance that suits both of you. Here’s to getting more sleep!
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