What is a good toddler sleep schedule, and when do they drop a nap?

How much sleep toddlers need

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, whose recommendations the AAP endorses, states that children 1 to 2 years old need 11 to 14 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps. Children 3 to 5 years old need 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours, including naps.

These totals combine nighttime sleep and daytime naps. Consistent enough sleep is linked with better attention, behavior, learning, and overall health.

Moving from two naps to one

Most toddlers drop the second nap and settle into a single midday nap somewhere around 15 to 18 months, though anywhere from roughly 13 to 24 months is within the normal range. Signs include fighting one of the two naps, taking a long time to fall asleep at one of them, or waking earlier.

During the transition, expect some bumpy days. You can shift the remaining nap slightly later toward midday and move bedtime a little earlier on days when the nap was short.

When naps end

Naps fade out gradually over the preschool years. About half of children stop napping by age 3, and nearly all give up daytime naps by age 5 or 6.

If your child resists naps but still gets overtired, a consistent rest period can bridge the gap. There is no specific clinical guideline mandating quiet time, but many families find a calm, screen-free rest block helps until the child no longer needs daytime sleep at all.

Building a steady schedule

Keep wake-up time, nap time, and bedtime within a consistent window each day, including weekends. A predictable wind-down routine of bath, books, and bed signals the body that sleep is coming.

Watch your child's total over 24 hours rather than any single block. If your child sleeps less at night after starting a nap, or fights bedtime, the nap may be too long or too late and can be trimmed.

Related questions

How many hours of sleep does a toddler need?

Children 1 to 2 years old need 11 to 14 hours of sleep per 24 hours, including naps, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, whose guidance the AAP endorses. Children 3 to 5 years old need 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours, including naps. Count total daily sleep, not just nighttime.

When do toddlers go from two naps to one?

Most toddlers transition to a single nap around 15 to 18 months, though anywhere from about 13 to 24 months is normal. Signs include resisting one of the two naps or taking a long time to fall asleep. Shifting the remaining nap toward midday and moving bedtime earlier helps during the change.

When do children stop napping?

Napping fades gradually. About half of children stop napping by age 3, and nearly all give up daytime naps by age 5 or 6. If your child no longer naps but gets overtired, a quiet rest period can help bridge the gap until the nap is fully outgrown.

Should I cut my toddler's nap to help bedtime?

If your toddler fights bedtime or sleeps less at night, the nap may be too long or too late. Trimming the nap or moving it earlier in the day can help. Keep an eye on the 24-hour total so your child still reaches the recommended 11 to 14 hours.

Sources & further reading

1. American Academy of Sleep Medicine — Child Sleep Duration Health Advisory
2. HealthyChildren.org (AAP) — Healthy Sleep Habits: How Many Hours Does Your Child Need?
3. Sleep Foundation — How Long Should a 2-Year-Old Nap?
4. AAP News — AAP Endorses New Recommendations on Sleep Times

This article reflects current AAP, CDC, and other public-health guidance and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. ParentFlow is a wellness companion — not a substitute for your pediatrician. For any medical concern, contact your healthcare provider.