Gina Johnson
Sleep is crucial for a child's healthy development. The amount of sleep a child needs varies with age. Newborns sleep around the clock, while toddlers need a lot of sleep to support their learning and growth. Between the ages of 1 and 2, most toddlers need 11 to 14 hours of sleep, including one or two daytime naps. As they approach their second birthday, many toddlers drop their second nap and start sleeping longer at night. So, how much sleep does a one-and-a-half-year-old need, and what can parents do to ensure their toddlers get adequate rest?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended sleep hours | 11-14 hours |
| Number of naps | 1-2 |
| Nap duration | 1-2 hours |
| Nap timing | Afternoon |
| Sleep cycle | Shorter than adults |
| Sleep environment | Quiet, cozy, dim lights, white noise |
| Sleep routine | Consistent bedtime, regular daytime schedule, physical activity, no screens |
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What You'll Learn
Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep per day
A one-and-a-half-year-old child is considered a toddler in terms of their sleep needs. Toddlers between the ages of one and two years old need between 11 and 14 hours of total sleep every day. This includes naps, which typically account for one to two hours of sleep.
It is common for toddlers to take one or two naps per day, with two naps being more common at the beginning of this period. As toddlers approach their second birthday, they tend to drop their second nap, and many daycare centres require toddlers to do so when they move from the baby room to the toddler room. By the time they turn two, most toddlers will only take one nap during the afternoon.
The transition from two naps to one is gradual, and it is not uncommon for toddlers to nap on alternate days or go a few days without napping. It is important to remember that losing naptime does not mean toddlers require less sleep overall. Instead, parents may need to adjust their toddler's bedtime to ensure they are getting the recommended 11 to 14 hours of sleep.
To help your toddler get the sleep they need, it is important to establish a consistent bedtime routine. A soothing routine that includes activities such as a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to quiet music can help your toddler relax and prepare for sleep. It is also crucial to limit screen time before bed, turning off all screens at least one hour beforehand.
Additionally, creating a quiet, comfortable, and secure sleep environment is essential. Toddlers often kick off their covers at night, so warmer pyjamas may be necessary during colder months. Reducing noise levels and keeping the bedroom dimly lit can also help improve your toddler's sleep quality.
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Daytime naps are important
A one-and-a-half-year-old toddler should be getting between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every day, including one or two daytime naps. Daytime naps are important for toddlers as they support their learning and growth. Napping provides benefits for memory and thinking, with research showing that frequent naps allow toddlers to consolidate specific memories and enable a more generalised memory that is important for learning and brain development.
Toddlers' sleep needs change as they start walking and talking, and they will start sleeping longer at night and taking fewer naps. However, it is important to remember that nap preferences can vary for every child. While some toddlers may transition to one nap a day, others may still need two. As your toddler gets closer to their second birthday, they will likely drop their second nap.
To ensure your toddler is getting enough sleep, it is important to establish a consistent bedtime routine. This could include a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to quiet music. It is also recommended to turn off all screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Additionally, it is beneficial to create a soothing environment for your toddler to nap during the day. This can be achieved by keeping the lights dim and creating a quiet atmosphere. Security items such as a small blanket or stuffed animal can also provide comfort during nap time.
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Establish a bedtime routine
A one-and-a-half-year-old toddler should be getting between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every day, including one or two daytime naps. As toddlers start walking and talking, their sleep needs change, and they start sleeping longer at night and taking fewer naps.
Establishing a bedtime routine is a great way to ensure your toddler is getting the sleep they need. Here are some tips to help you establish a bedtime routine:
- Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time. This helps to regulate your toddler's body clock and encourages them to fall asleep and wake up at consistent times. You can give your toddler a heads-up 30 minutes and then 10 minutes before bedtime.
- Create a soothing bedtime routine that helps your toddler wind down and relax before sleep. This could include reading a book, listening to soft, soothing music, or having a warm bath. Keep the lights dim and minimise interaction if they wake up during the night, so they don't fully wake up.
- Turn off all screens (TV, computers, phones, tablets, and video games) at least one hour before bedtime. Screens can overstimulate your toddler and make it harder for them to fall asleep.
- Encourage physical activity and outdoor play during the day. This helps to tire your toddler out and makes them more likely to sleep well at night.
- Be consistent with your bedtime routine. Toddlers thrive on routine and consistency, so try to follow the same steps in the same order each night.
- Make sure your toddler's bedroom is comfortable and cosy for sleeping. Remove any distractions or noise that might disrupt their sleep. You can also include security items, such as a small blanket or stuffed animal, for comfort.
- Consider your toddler's nap schedule during the day. As they approach the age of one and a half, they may transition from two naps to one longer afternoon nap. Some toddlers may even drop their morning nap earlier. Adjust their nap schedule according to their needs, ensuring they still get the recommended total hours of sleep.
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Avoid screens before bed
A one-and-a-half-year-old toddler should be getting between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every day, including naps. At this age, toddlers usually take one or two naps per day, although the frequency and duration of naps will decrease as they get older.
It is important to limit screen time for toddlers before bedtime. Screens can seriously disrupt a toddler's sleep. Research shows that screen time before bed can interfere with a toddler's natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder for them to wind down and fall asleep. The bright light from screens can suppress melatonin levels, reducing feelings of sleepiness. This is particularly true for blue light, which is emitted by many electronic devices. Blue light exposure can also lead to behaviour issues, including tantrums, trouble paying attention, and impulsivity.
Additionally, the constant stimulation from phones, tablets, and other devices keeps the brain alert and makes it harder to relax. This is true for both adults and children, but children may be even more sensitive to the effects of screen time. A study found that toddlers who used screens regularly got less sleep, took longer to fall asleep, and went to bed later.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to turn off all screens at least one hour before bedtime. This includes TVs, computers, phones, tablets, and video games. Instead of screen time, encourage quiet activities such as reading, listening to music, or doing a mindfulness activity. If your toddler wants to use a device in the evening, suggest they choose relaxing content and put the device away well before bedtime.
You can also consider removing all devices from your toddler's bedroom to signal that the bedroom is a place for relaxation and sleep.
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A quiet, cosy bedroom is best
A one-and-a-half-year-old toddler should be getting between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every day, including one or two daytime naps. As toddlers start walking and talking, their sleep needs change, and they start sleeping longer at night and taking fewer naps. Many toddlers this age will transition to one afternoon nap, though some will continue to take two.
It is important to stick to a regular bedtime routine and sleep schedule. A soothing bedtime routine might include a warm bath, a bedtime story, and quiet activities. Be gentle but firm if your child protests. You can give your toddler a heads-up 30 minutes and then 10 minutes before bedtime. Turn off all screens, including TVs, computers, phones, tablets, and video games, at least one hour before bedtime. Consider removing all devices from your toddler's bedroom.
During the day, be sure to get some physical activity and fresh air, which are crucial for good sleep. It is also beneficial to build some quiet time into your toddler's afternoon so they can relax and recharge.
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Frequently asked questions
Between the ages of 1 and 2, children need 11 to 14 hours of sleep per day, including one or two daytime naps.
Establish a consistent bedtime routine and set a regular bedtime. You can give your child a heads-up 30 minutes and then 10 minutes beforehand. Turn off all screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Keep the lights dim, speak softly, and minimise your interaction so they don't fully wake up.
