Complete Baby Wake Windows Chart
Wake windows are the optimal amount of time your baby can comfortably stay awake between sleep periods. This comprehensive chart shows age-appropriate wake windows from newborn to toddler, helping you time naps perfectly with our baby nap scheduler.
Remember, these are guidelines based on pediatric sleep research. Every baby is unique, so watch for your baby's individual sleepy cues and adjust accordingly. For common questions about wake windows, visit our FAQ section.
Wake Windows by Age
| Age Range | Wake Window | Daily Naps | Total Sleep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-1 months | 45-60 minutes | 4-6 naps | 15-17 hours |
| 1-2 months | 60-90 minutes | 4-5 naps | 14-16 hours |
| 2-3 months | 75-90 minutes | 4-5 naps | 14-16 hours |
| 3-4 months | 90-120 minutes | 3-4 naps | 13-15 hours |
| 4-5 months | 2-2.5 hours | 3-4 naps | 12-15 hours |
| 5-6 months | 2.5-3 hours | 2-3 naps | 12-15 hours |
| 6-7 months | 3-4 hours | 2-3 naps | 12-14 hours |
| 7-8 months | 3-4 hours | 2-3 naps | 12-14 hours |
| 8-10 months | 3-4 hours | 2-3 naps | 12-14 hours |
| 10-12 months | 3-4 hours | 2-3 naps | 12-14 hours |
| 12+ months | 4-5 hours | 1-2 naps | 11-14 hours |
How to Use Wake Windows
Step 1: Find Your Baby's Age
Locate your baby's current age range in the chart above. Use their adjusted age if they were born prematurely.
Step 2: Note the Wake Window
This is the maximum time your baby should be awake between sleep periods before becoming overtired.
Step 3: Watch for Sleep Cues
Look for yawning, rubbing eyes, or fussiness. These signals may appear before the wake window ends.
Step 4: Adjust as Needed
Every baby is different. If your baby consistently needs more or less time, adjust by 15-30 minutes.
Recognizing Sleep Cues
Early Sleep Cues (Act Now!)
- • Yawning
- • Rubbing eyes or ears
- • Staring blankly or looking away
- • Becoming less active
- • Decreased interest in toys
Late Sleep Cues (Overtired)
- • Crying or fussiness
- • Arching back
- • Hyperactivity or "second wind"
- • Difficulty settling
- • Clenched fists
Common Nap Transitions
4-6 Months: 4 to 3 Naps
The fourth nap (usually late afternoon) becomes inconsistent. Wake windows extend to 2-2.5 hours.
6-8 Months: 3 to 2 Naps
The third nap drops, leaving morning and afternoon naps. Wake windows extend to 3-4 hours.
12-18 Months: 2 to 1 Nap
Morning nap drops, leaving one afternoon nap. Wake window before nap becomes 4-5 hours.
Tips for Wake Window Success
Keep a sleep log to identify your baby's patterns
Create a consistent pre-nap routine
Optimize the sleep environment (dark, cool, quiet)
Be flexible during growth spurts and illness
Adjust wake windows gradually (15-30 minutes)
Trust your instincts - you know your baby best
Calculate Your Baby's Next Nap Time
Use our calculator to determine the perfect nap window based on your baby's age and last wake time.
Use Nap Calculator