Babies begin sleeping through the night when they weigh 12 or 13 pounds. Growth and developmental changes may be the cause. Two naps a day are usually needed through the twelfth month. Toddlers and preschoolers sleep an average of about 12 hours a day and take one nap. Naps may be stopped by the end of the third year.
Sleep problems are common, especially when going to bed and falling asleep.
Nightmares and night terrors may occur. School-aged children require less sleep as they get older. Their need drops down to 10 hours a day. The child's age, activity level, and health status strongly influence the amount of sleep needed. Bedtime rituals and later bedtimes reduce resistance.