For children who are non-nappers it is important to be prepared with quiet activities. These quiet time activities may help alleviate stress for non-nappers as well as help children who need a nap get the sleep they need.
List of resources for baby sleep safely and ways to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death. Vital information for all that care for babies.
- Tips for Creating a Safe Sleep Environment for Infants in Child Care
- Infant Safe Sleep Policy Template
The amount of sleep young children need varies. An infant typically needs 16 to 20 hours of sleep per day. It is normal for a newborn to wake up every two or three hours to be fed. At around four months babies begin to need less sleep, 10 to 12 hours at night and nap 2 to 3 hours mid-day. Infant sleep patterns are usually related to their feeding schedules and become consistent as long as parents and caregivers are mindful to keep the schedule consistent. Preschool age (2-5 years) children tend to nap between 2-3 hours but begin to need less time as they move toward their 5th birthday.