The importance of a good night’s sleep has been researched and proven time and time again. But do you know how much sleep your child should be getting? Find out in our guide on how much sleep do kids need:

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Sleep is the holy grail of parenting, and a conversation topic that starts with newborns and continues as your child grows.

It is important to note that each child is different – perhaps your child is an early waker but likes a nap, maybe your child doesn’t nap but sleeps 12 hours a night. There is no right and wrong, but having an idea of how much sleep kids need at different ages is a great way to make sure your child isn’t missing out on too much.

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Why is it Important That Kids Get Enough Sleep?

Too little sleep impacts the body levels of thyroid and stress hormones, which in turn can affect memory, immune system, heart and metabolism, and much more.

Lack of sleep can impact a child’s ability to concentrate and learn at school.

Studies have also found that children who don’t get enough sleep, have an increased risk of being obese.

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How Much Sleep Do Kids Need: By Age

Newborn Babies (0-3 months)

Newborns sleep a total of between 10.5 to 18 hours a day, usually on an irregular schedule with periods of 1-3 hours spent awake.

Infants (4-11 months)

By six months of age, nighttime feedings are usually not necessary and many infants sleep through the night by 6 months, with 70-80% sleeping through by 9 months.

Infants typically sleep 9-12 hours during the night and take 30 minute to two-hour naps, one to four times a day – with less naps needed as they reach age one.

Toddlers (1-3 years)

Toddlers need about 11-14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Naps are still typical for this age group.

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

Preschoolers usually need to sleep 11-13 hours each night and most do not nap after 3-4 years of age.

Children and teens (6+)

Children aged between six to 13 need 9-11 hours of sleep, while teens need 9-10 hours/night.

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What is your experience of your child and sleep? How much sleep do your kids need? Leave a comment below and let us know – we’d love to hear from you!