Sleep and settling (8 to 12 months)

Your baby's sleep

In the first year, babies start to have routines for feeding, playing, and sleeping.

When they are 8-12 months old, some babies can sleep through the night. But many babies still wake up at night which is normal. 

During the day, most babies still need 2 naps. They may have short naps of 30 to 40 minutes or longer naps of 1 to 2 hours. Some babies need day naps until they are 3 years old.  This is just a guide, every baby has different sleep patterns. 

Helping baby sleep

If your baby wakes a lot, think about what is making it harder for them to sleep. Some of these might include:

• Separation anxiety: They might be missing you. Make sure to spend time together in the day. Read more about separation anxiety. 
• Movement: babies move in their sleep and may need help learning how to go back to sleep if they have ended up on their stomach, or if they bump into the cot or bed. Gently help your baby settle back down by talking to them softly, patting them or stroking them

• Bedtime routine: following the same bedtime routine, like washing face and hands, checking the nappy, cuddles, soft talking or stroking, dim lights, reading a story, and gentle music before bed, can help your baby know it is time to sleep.

More information on getting help with your baby’s sleep

If you need help with your baby's sleep, there are lots of information for sleep and settling

• Find out more about sleep and settling babies here
• Karitane and Tresillian have videos and information on infant sleep you may also find helpful