This is How Much Sleep Kids (And Babies!) Actually Need

Night wakings, night feedings, 3 AM requests for water and snacks. Those dark circles under your eyes do not lie— you’re tired! And really, your little one probably is too. Once you’re a parent, sleep quickly becomes a faint whisper of a concept you once knew before kids and with regressions around every corner—or just a fussy baby—it can take a major toll on both you and your family.

But don’t worry if you feel like you’re at the end of your rope, the answer may come down to scheduling naps and bedtimes appropriately. Your Mini may not be getting as much sleep as he or she needs during their current rest breaks in order to fully calm down and catch those much needed z’s. And if you’ve dealt with an over-tired baby, you know that even 30 minutes of sleep missed can wreak major havoc.

Below is a break-down of how much sleep kids and babies actually need, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Ages 0-3 Months

14 to 17 hours recommended. No less than 11 hours or more than 19 hours.

Ages 4-11 Months

12 to 15 hours recommended. No less than 10 hours or more than 18 hours.

Ages 1-2 Years

11 to 14 hours recommended. No less than 9 hours or more than 16 hours.

Ages 3-5 Years

10 to 13 hours recommended. No less than 8 hours or more than 14 hours.

Ages 6-13 Years

9 to 11 hours recommended. No less than 7 hours or more than 12 hours.

You’ll also want to read these Signs Your Baby Isn’t Getting Enough Sleep or shop this Baby Bed That Will Tackle Your Sleep Struggles.

Opening Image: Vanessa Tierney for Mini Magazine