Most children sleep through the night by their first birthday. When they do wake up for a few minutes, they usually go back to sleep by themselves unless they are teething or sick. Some one year olds need more sleep than others. While one baby sleeps as little as eight hours, others may sleep as much as 17 hours. How can you tell? Set a regular bedtime and watch your child’s reaction. Does your child wake up too early in the morning? If so, your short-time sleeper may need a little later bedtime. Watch how your child acts during the day. Your child may need more sleep if she is fussy or if she falls asleep at strange times. Once you set a pattern, your child will have regular times for sleep. Establish a pattern for nights and for nap time. Young children are happier when important parts of the day like meals and bedtime stay the same.

This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If we write him or her, we are talking about all babies. Every baby is different. Normal children may do things earlier or later than described in this FAQ. This FAQ describes typical children at each age. Each child is special and develops at his or her own pace.