The Dreaded Short Nap
Are your baby’s naps consistently lasting just 20–30 minutes? You’re not alone and there is hope for longer, more restful naps!
Short naps are incredibly common in babies under 6 months, but they can continue past that age if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Let’s break it down:
Why Do Short Naps Happen?
Overtiredness – When your baby is awake too long, they may become overstimulated, making it hard to transition between sleep cycles.
Under-tiredness – If your baby hasn’t been awake long enough, they may not be ready for a full nap.
Sleep Environment – Too much light, noise, or distractions can interrupt deep sleep.
Lack of Self-Soothing Skills – Babies who rely on feeding, rocking, or holding to fall asleep may struggle to connect sleep cycles independently.
Developmental Stage – At certain ages, sleep patterns shift. Around 4 months, many babies experience a "sleep regression" that affects naps.
What Can You Do?
Watch wake windows appropriate for your baby’s age to avoid under- or overtiredness.
Create a consistent nap routine to signal that it’s time to rest.
Darken the room and use background noise to promote longer, deeper sleep.
Give baby a chance to resettle if they wake after a short nap—some just need a few minutes to fall back asleep.
Practice independent sleep skills during bedtime, which often carries over to nap time.
Remember, short naps are a phase for many babies, but with the right support and strategy, you can guide your baby to longer, more restorative sleep.
Need help figuring out your baby's ideal sleep schedule? I offer personalized consultations tailored to your child’s unique needs.
