How Much Sleep Does Your Child Need?

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If you ever wonder how much sleep your child needs, you are like most parents.  

And while every child is different, we have some guidelines about what is recommended and normal for children. 

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1 to 4 Weeks Old

This is the point when your children will sleep the most, especially if they are born prematurely. You can expect multiple naps throughout the day. It’s recommended that newborn babies get anywhere from 14 to 17 hours of sleep a day. 

However, you don’t need to be concerned if your child is getting a couple less or a couple more. But if your baby seems to sleep fewer than 11 hours a day, you should talk with your pediatrician. 

1 to 12 Months Old

In the first year, the pattern of sleep should stay around 14 to 15 hours a night. As your children begin to grow, they will sleep for longer stretches at a time. They will also start to adjust to a more regular sleep pattern. 

1 to 2 Years Old

During this age, it’s still important for your child to nap. With a nap, they should get around 12 to 14 hours of sleep. Of course, it’s not uncommon for children in this age to get a couple hours’ less or more than this.  

3 to 5 Years Old

During the preschool age, your child will get around 10 to 13 hours of sleep every night. You should be concerned if they are consistently getting fewer than 8 hours or more than 14. 

6 to 12 Years Old

At this age, your children should have consistently stopped taking naps. Also, with school and other activities, they’re usually able to stay up later and wake up earlier. Try to help your children in this age group get 9 to 11 hours of sleep. 

13 to 17 Years Old

Lastly: teenagers. During this period, your child will grow into a young adult. As a result, their sleeping pattern should more closely reflect yours. Your teenager should be getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep. 

How Much Sleep Does Your Child Need?

If you’re concerned about the sleeping patterns of your child, talk with your pediatrician. Sleep plays an important role in healing the body and helping it to develop. 

While it’s important for adults to function well, sleep is crucial for children to be able to grow. Still have questions? Ask our pediatricians here at South Summit Pediatrics, how much sleep does your child need?