The 2 to 1 Nap Transition:

Many parents feel there is a struggle to tell exactly when a child is ready to transition from their two naps a day down to one single nap. While there is no sure-fire sign or age that all children will seamlessly move down to one nap, there are ways to note if the 2 to 1 nap transition may be approaching for your baby.

The Average Age For The Transition:

On Average babies, will be ready to transition between 12 and 18 months. Note, I have stated the AVERAGE age the transition can happen anywhere between 12 and 18 months old. I have seen 9-10-month-old children who were ready and dropped the nap earlier than most, to the displeasure of most parents. Of course, the two naps a day is a wonderful outlet for parents to have much needed breaks during their day. Other times children have gone beyond the 18-month age still rocking out two naps, I have been in this category with my daughter who officially just recently went down to one nap after 19 months old.

What Can I Look For To See If My Child Is Ready For The Transition:

• When a baby can go longer from their wake-up time each morning until their first official nap.

• Baby is taking much longer to go to sleep at the morning nap time.

• Baby is taking a much shorter first nap and waking happy and ready to continue on with their day.

• When baby is taking a much longer and more consistent nap.

• Baby wakes from their nap refreshed and able to go longer until their bed time.

The Transition Is Not Seamless For All Babies:

Even when you have spotted that it is time for the nap transition it can still take some time and work to get your little one down to one nap. It is important that you stay consistent and find your babies “sweet spot” for their perfect nap time. There can be various factors to consider,for instance, some babies do better with a longer wake time from the first official wake of the day and others need a short wake window from their wake up in the morning until their nap time. Listen to your baby’s sleepy cues and adjusting as needed to find that perfect one nap time for your child.

Have questions or comments please email me kelley@serenitysleepers.com. If you are finally ready to take the next step on getting your child on the right track with their sleep, I am happy to help you in any way. Also, check out other blogs on my website www.serenitysleepers.com to answer the many questions you may have about your little ones.