Sleep tips for 7-to 12-month-olds
The sleep habits of older babies vary. Some may sleep all night and take one or no naps. Others may be up in the night but take several naps during the day.
Here are some tips for helping your older baby get the rest she needs:
- Your baby’s napping habits may start to change between 7 and 12 months. Her two daily naps may be shorter—just one to two hours each. And at around 9 months your baby may be sleeping up to 12 hours at night. Some skip a morning nap altogether!
- Bedtime can bring special challenges and often tears. Babies cry at bedtime because they feel anxious when a parent leaves the room.
- Don’t rush in if your baby cries when you leave her room. Give her time to fall back to sleep on her own. If her crying persists, comfort her by checking in but don’t pick her up. Rub your baby’s tummy and whisper to help her relax and fall asleep.
- Now that your baby has gained greater mobility, she may be practicing sitting up or pulling herself up to a standing position. Make sure her crib is sturdy enough for your stronger little one.
- Remove the bumper pads because your baby may use them to try to climb out of the crib!