When Do Babies Drop Naps?

Nicole Jayawickreme
Jun 25
3 min read

Understanding Nap Transitions from Baby to Toddler

One of the most common questions I hear from parents is: When do babies drop naps? It’s a big milestone in your little one’s sleep journey, and while it can feel confusing or even a bit disruptive, nap transitions are a normal part of development.

Let’s walk through each stage so you know what to expect and how to support your child along the way.

The 4 to 3 Nap Transition

This usually happens around 3–5 months. Your baby may start staying awake longer between naps and begin to naturally resist the fourth nap of the day.

You might notice:

Longer awake windows
Shorter or skipped late-afternoon naps
Better overnight sleep

The 3 to 2 Nap Transition

Most babies drop to two naps between 6–8 months.

Signs they’re ready for this change include:

Regularly refusing the third nap
Bedtime becoming later or harder to settle
Shorter naps earlier in the day

The 2 to 1 Nap Transition

This tends to happen between 14–18 months, though every child is different.

Look out for:

Consistently resisting either the morning or afternoon nap
Taking longer to fall asleep at bedtime
Waking during the night or very early in the morning

The 1 to 0 Nap Transition

The final transition — when toddlers drop naps entirely — usually happens between 2.5 and 3.5 years.

Common signs include:

Refusing the nap multiple days in a row
Taking longer to fall asleep at night
Bedtime becoming later
Early morning waking
Seeming well-rested and happy even without a nap

If your child no longer naps but still needs quiet time, offer a rest period in a calm environment with books or soft music.

How Do You Know When Babies Drop Naps?

Every child is different, but common indicators that it’s time for a nap transition include:

Regularly skipping a nap
Naps starting to affect bedtime or overnight sleep
Long periods of wakefulness at bedtime
Uncharacteristically awake overnight
Early morning rising
Staying happy and energetic even after fewer naps

Every Baby Is Different

— And That’s Okay

While we’ve outlined the typical ages for nap transitions, it’s important to remember that every baby is unique. Some little ones may drop a nap a bit earlier, while others might hold onto theirs longer — and both are completely normal.

What matters most is your baby’s overall sleep needs and cues. If they’re generally well-rested, coping well during the day, and settling at bedtime without a fuss, there’s usually no need to rush any changes.

So if your baby hasn’t dropped a nap right “on schedule,” don’t stress. Trust your instincts, follow your child’s lead, and know that flexibility is key when it comes to sleep. You’ve got this and I’m always here if you need extra support.

Sleep and Feed Routines - Nicole Nurtures

Not sure which nap routine is the best fit for your baby right now?

That’s exactly why I created my

Nicole Nurtures Sleep & Feed Routines — simple, age-based guides to help you confidently navigate nap transitions, settle into the right rhythm, and support better sleep for your little one (and you!).

👉 Explore the routines here

And if you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to begin, I’m here to help. Fill in my contact form and we can talk through your baby’s current routine and the best next steps for smoother days and more restful nights.

With the right tools and a little guidance, navigating nap transitions can be far less stressful — and much more restful for the whole family.

Nicole Jayawickreme

Certified Baby Sleep Consultant and Registered Nurse (Neonatal Intensive Care)

I’m a certified sleep specialist, neonatal intensive care nurse, wife and a mother of 3 beautiful little children. I know first hand how important sleep is and I am here to help you and your family with my sleep programs so that you all can thrive.

I will guide and empower determined parents like you, to get the sleep you desperately need so that you have the energy to be the best parent that you can be!