How to Tell if Your 3-Month-Old Baby Needs a Nap

Infants need 16 to 20 hours of sleep daily with newborns sleeping on and off throughout the day and night, waking every two to three hours to eat, according to the KidsHealth website. Once babies pass the newborn stage and approach age 4 months, they typically sleep 10 to 12 hours a night and take two to three naps a day. At 3-months-old, your infant is still likely finding his sleeping rhythm. Paying attention to his sleepiness signs is a way to help him get into a napping schedule. When you recognize his sleepy cues, you can put him down for a nap quickly before he gets overtired.

Instructions

    • 1

      Track the times when your 3-month-old naturally falls asleep during the day. Write down the times that he falls asleep, as well as the amount of time that he stays asleep. Tracking his sleeping times can help you determine when he starts to develop a napping pattern, so you can begin your nap routine at certain times during the day.

    • 2

      Monitor your baby's behavior to look for signs that he's getting sleepy. Get to know your infant's individual clues that he's tired -- like a change in behavior. If he goes from actively playing to noticeably slowing down, it's likely time for a nap. A 3-month-old is typically ready for a nap after active play time.

    • 3

      Watch for droopy eyelids, eye rubbing and head drooping, which are often signs that an infant is sleepy. Some infants even yawn to let you know that they're getting tired. Use these signs as cues to start your infant's nap time routine.

    • 4

      Listen for signs fussiness, especially if your 3-month-old is already full and in a clean diaper. Fussing isn't always a sign that he is tired, but babies who go from happy to fussy are usually ready for a nap. If he's fussing for no apparent reason, consider the need for a nap.

    • 5

      Watch how your infant reacts as you start your nap time routine. For example, your nap time routine might involve dimming the lights, putting on soothing music and gently rocking your little one in your arms. Your infant will learn to recognize the routine, which will help her settle in for her nap. If you see that she's getting drowsy as you rock her, gently place her in her crib, giving her the chance to fall asleep while she is sleepy yet still awake. This will help her develop a nap schedule.

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