8 Month Old Sleep Schedule
Complete sleep guide for 32-36 week old babies: 2 naps, managing 8-10 month sleep regression, crawling & separation anxiety, and evidence-based sleep strategies.
2 naps + navigating sleep regression!
Evidence-based guide reviewed by pediatric sleep experts
Last updated: January 26, 2025
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Every baby is unique, and sleep patterns can vary significantly. If you have concerns about your baby's sleep, feeding, development, or health, please consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider. Do not rely solely on this guide to diagnose sleep issues.
8 Month Sleep Schedule Guidelines
What's New at 8 Months (32-36 Weeks)?
Wake windows expand to 2.5-3.5 hours. This is a significant milestone that enables more flexible daily routines and activities.
Most 8 month olds can sleep 10-12 hour stretches without feeds. Many sleep fully through the night, though some still wake once.
At 8 months, babies have the developmental capacity for sleep training. This is a commonly recommended age to begin gentle independent sleep skill building.
Many babies start the transition to 2 naps around this age. This can take several weeks to months. Some babies transition earlier, others later.
At 8 months, most babies show signs of readiness for solids. This may include reaching for food and sitting upright with minimal support.
Object permanence develops around 8 months, leading to increased separation awareness. This may affect sleep as babies become more aware of parent absence.
Quick Reference: 8 Month Old Sleep (32-36 Weeks)
📚 Data Sources:
Guidelines adapted from:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- National Sleep Foundation
- Pediatric sleep research (see References section below)
⚕️ Consult Your Pediatrician: These are general planning guidelines. Every baby is different. If you have concerns about your baby's sleep, feeding, or development, please consult your healthcare provider.
Why Use Wake Windows Instead of a Fixed Schedule?
At 8 months, while babies have much more predictable sleep patterns than younger infants, daily wake times may still vary by 15-30 minutes based on hunger, development, and individual differences.
Wake windows (the time your baby stays awake between sleeps) remain valuable at 8 months because they provide flexibility while maintaining structure. Rather than watching the clock strictly, you observe how long your baby has been awake and respond to their sleep cues.
Wake Windows at 8 Months
At 8 months, typical wake windows are 2.5-3.5 hours. The first wake window may be 2.5 hours, and windows gradually extend through the day, with the last wake window (before bedtime) potentially reaching 3-3.5 hours.
By now, you may notice your baby settling into more predictable clock-based times naturally. Some families find a hybrid approach works best: loosely clock-based with flexibility around wake windows.
Bottom line: At 8 months, wake windows remain a useful tool, though many families transition toward clock-based schedules around this time. Use whichever method works best for your family's rhythm.
Next Nap Window Calculator
What's Normal at 8 Months
You can reliably predict bedtime, wake time, and nap times within a 15-30 minute window. Many babies naturally consolidate to more consistent schedules at this age.
This transition typically happens between 5-8 months, with many starting around 8 months. One nap may naturally start dropping. Total daytime sleep: 3-4 hours. The transition can take weeks to months.
By 8 months, most babies are nutritionally capable of sleeping 10-12 hours without feeding. Some sleep through, others still wake once. Both are normal. Night weaning may now be medically safe, depending on your baby's growth.
Around 8 months, babies develop object permanence and become aware of separation. This developmental leap may cause difficulty with bedtime or increased night wakings. This is temporary and developmentally normal.
At 8 months, babies have typically been eating solids for 2+ months. Most are eating 2 meals per day with a variety of textures. Increased nutrition from solids can support longer sleep stretches.
At 8 months, babies have the cognitive capacity to learn independent sleep skills. Gentle sleep training methods may be appropriate after consulting your pediatrician.
Remember: Every baby is different. These are averages. If your 8 month old still takes 3 naps, wakes once at night, or needs longer wake windows, that may still be normal. Trust your instincts and consult your pediatrician if concerned.
Wake Windows Guide: 8 Month Old (32-36 Weeks)
Age-Specific Wake Windows
First wake window (morning): 2.5-3 hours (often shortest)
Second wake window (midday): 3-3.5 hours
Last wake window (before bed): 3-3.5 hours (often longest)
Sleep Cues to Watch For
Early Signs (Sleepy Window)
- •Quieting down, less vocalizing
- •Staring blankly or losing interest in toys
- •Rubbing eyes or face
- •Yawning (1-2 yawns)
- •Turning away from interaction
- •Slowed movements, less active play
Late Signs (Overtired)
- •Crying or fussing
- •Arching back or body tension
- •Hyperactivity or "second wind" energy
- •Extreme clinginess
- •Difficult to calm or soothe
- •Fighting sleep intensely
At 8 months, try putting baby down early in the sleep cue window (when you see the first signs) rather than waiting for overtiredness. This often results in easier sleep onset and better sleep quality.
Sample Daily Schedules: 8 Month Old
Important: These are samples based on a 7:00 AM wake-up. Times will shift based on actual wake times. Some 8 month olds are still on 3 naps, while others have transitioned to 2 naps. Both are normal at this age.
Sample Schedule: 3 Naps (Rare - Still Transitioning to 2 Naps)
| Time | Activity | Duration/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Wake + Feed | Breast/bottle feed, diaper change |
| 7:15-9:15 AM | Awake Time | Play, activity, tummy time (2h WW) |
| 9:15-10:30 AM | Nap 1 | First nap: 1-1.5 hours |
| 10:30 AM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 10:45 AM-12:45 PM | Awake Time | Outdoor time, activities, solids (if started) (2h WW) |
| 12:45-2:15 PM | Nap 2 | Longest nap: 1.5-2 hours |
| 2:15 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 2:30-4:30 PM | Awake Time | Play, social time, activities (2h WW) |
| 4:30-5:15 PM | Nap 3 | Short afternoon nap: 45-60 min |
| 5:15 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 5:30-7:00 PM | Awake Time | Family time, calm activities (1.5h WW) |
| 7:00-7:30 PM | Bedtime Routine | Bath, massage, pajamas, feed, book, cuddles |
| 7:30 PM | Bedtime | Down for the night |
| 7:30 PM - 7:00 AM | Nighttime Sleep | Many sleep through; some wake once. 9-12 hour stretch typical. |
Sample Schedule: 2 Naps (Typical 8 Months)
| Time | Activity | Duration/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Wake + Feed | Breast/bottle feed, diaper change |
| 7:15-9:15 AM | Awake Time | Play, activity, solids (2h WW) |
| 9:15-10:45 AM | Nap 1 | First nap: 1.5-2 hours |
| 10:45 AM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 11:00 AM-1:30 PM | Awake Time | Outdoor activities, social time, play (2.5h WW) |
| 1:30-3:15 PM | Nap 2 | Afternoon nap: 1.5-2 hours |
| 3:15 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 3:30-7:00 PM | Awake Time | Family activities, snack/solids, calm time (3.5h WW) |
| 7:00-7:30 PM | Bedtime Routine | Bath, massage, pajamas, feed, book, cuddles |
| 7:30 PM | Bedtime | Down for the night |
| 7:30 PM - 7:00 AM | Nighttime Sleep | Many babies sleep 10-12 hours without feeds at this age. |
Schedule Note: The last nap should ideally end by 4:00-4:30 PM (if on 3 naps) or by 3:15 PM (if on 2 naps) to protect bedtime between 7:00-8:00 PM. This prevents overtiredness and bedtime resistance.
How many naps should a 8 month old take?
By 8 months, almost all babies should be on a firm 2-nap schedule. The transition from 3 naps is fully complete.
Remember: The 3-to-2 nap transition can happen anytime between 5-8 months. Every baby is different. If your 8 month old still needs 3 naps, that's normal. If they've already transitioned to 2 naps, that's also normal. Trust your baby's rhythm.
How long should a 8 month old nap?
At 8 months, nap durations may vary depending on whether baby is still on 3 naps or transitioning to 2 naps:
Morning nap: 1-1.5 hours | Midday nap: 1.5-2 hours | Afternoon nap: 45-60 min | Total: 3-4 hours
Morning nap: 1.5-2 hours | Afternoon nap: 1.5-2 hours | Total: 3-4 hours
Note: Some 8 month olds still have 30-45 minute naps (one sleep cycle). If your baby is sleeping this short and seems well-rested, it may be sufficient. Longer naps typically develop over time.
When should the last nap be for a 8 month old?
Last nap timing significantly impacts bedtime success at 8 months:
Last nap should end by 4:00-4:30 PM maximum. This provides 2.5-3 hours of awake time before bedtime at 7:00-8:00 PM. If the last nap ends later, bedtime may shift later.
Last nap should end by 3:00-3:30 PM to allow 3.5-4 hours awake before bedtime. This longer wake window helps consolidate nighttime sleep.
Pro Tip: If you're experiencing bedtime resistance, check when the last nap ended. If it's too late, baby may not be tired enough (or conversely, may be overtired). Adjusting last nap timing often helps.
When is bedtime for a 8 month old?
Most 8 month olds have a bedtime between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Here's what works well:
- Early bedtime (7:00 PM): Supports longer nighttime sleep. Good if baby wakes early (before 7:00 AM) or you prefer earlier mornings.
- Mid-range bedtime (7:30 PM): Works well for many families. Balances early wake and morning routines.
- Later bedtime (8:00 PM): Suits families with later schedules or if baby naturally wakes later (7:30-8:00 AM).
Key: Consistency matters most. Aim for the same bedtime within a 15-30 minute window every night. This supports healthy circadian rhythm development and often improves sleep quality and duration.
The 3-to-2 Nap Transition: A Major Milestone at 8 Months
What is the 3-to-2 nap transition?
The 3-to-2 nap transition is when your baby consolidates from three naps per day to two naps per day. Typically, the afternoon nap (after 4:00 PM) drops, or the afternoon nap merges with the midday nap. This transition usually happens between 5-8 months, with many babies starting around 8 months.
Signs Your Baby May Be Ready to Transition:
- Baby starts refusing the afternoon nap consistently
- The day goes more smoothly with just 2 naps
- Baby sleeps better at night when the 3rd nap is dropped
- Wake windows are now consistently 2.5+ hours
- Baby seems to have enough energy for a longer afternoon wake time
How to Transition: Step-by-Step
Observe for 1-2 weeks. Is baby consistently fighting the 3rd nap or sleeping poorly when it happens? Is bedtime better without it?
Start by skipping it some days. If baby transitions smoothly, continue skipping. If baby becomes overtired, keep the nap for a few more weeks.
With 2 naps, wake windows may extend. The last wake window (afternoon) will be 3-4 hours. Bedtime may need to shift earlier initially.
The transition can take 2-4 weeks as your baby's body adjusts to longer wake windows. Sleep may be disrupted temporarily.
Important Reminders:
- • Don't force the transition too early. If baby still needs 3 naps at 8 months, that's completely normal.
- • If the 2-nap schedule isn't working (increased night wakings, very early wake times), go back to 3 naps for a few more weeks.
- • The transition can happen gradually over several weeks or suddenly over a few days—both are normal.
- • Some babies transition to 2 naps by 5 months; others don't until 8-9 months. There's no "right" timeline.
Developmental Milestones at 8 Months
Most 8 month olds are crawling or getting ready to crawl. This new mobility skill can disrupt sleep as babies practice moving around, even in the crib.
Babies begin pulling themselves up to stand while holding furniture or crib rails. Standing in the crib during sleep times is common and may temporarily affect sleep.
Fine motor skills improve as babies develop the pincer grasp (using thumb and forefinger). This enables self-feeding of small finger foods.
Language development shows through babbling with consonants ("ba-ba," "da-da") and using different tones and inflections to communicate.
Babies begin recognizing and responding to simple words like "no," "hi," and "bye." Cognitive comprehension is developing rapidly.
Many babies experience separation anxiety during this period. This is a normal developmental phase that may affect bedtime and nap routines temporarily.
Sleep Impact: These new motor skills—especially crawling, pulling up, and standing—may temporarily disrupt sleep as babies practice these movements even during sleep times. Separation anxiety (8-10 months) is also common. This is temporary and normal. Maintaining consistent routines may help during transitions.
Activities for 8 Month Olds
At 8 months, babies are more interactive and can enjoy a wider variety of activities. These activities may help with daytime stimulation and better sleep:
Physical Activities
- • Crawling encouragement (place toys out of reach)
- • Activity centers for pull-up practice
- • Exploring household textures safely
- • Water table play (supervised)
- • Waving practice in mirrors
Sensory Activities
- • Exploring textures and materials
- • Water play (bath time)
- • Listening to music and sounds
- • Looking at high-contrast images
- • Feeling different fabrics
Social Activities
- • Peek-a-boo games
- • Singing and talking
- • Interaction with caregivers
- • Playgroups (short visits)
- • Mirror play (seeing their face)
Outdoor Activities
- • Nature exploration
- • Walks in stroller or carrier
- • Fresh air and sunlight exposure
- • Observing plants and animals
- • Safe outdoor exploration
Tip: Adequate daytime activity and stimulation supports better daytime sleep and nighttime sleep. But avoid overstimulation near bedtime. Wind down activities 1-2 hours before sleep.
Bedtime Routine for 8 Month Olds
A consistent bedtime routine signals to your baby that sleep is coming. This may help with separation anxiety and sleep independence. A typical 30-45 minute routine might look like:
5:45-6:00 PM (Pre-bedtime wind-down)
Dim lights, move to quiet area, slow down activities. Start moving toward bedroom.
6:00-6:15 PM (Bath time)
Warm (not hot) bath with gentle play. This soothes and signals bedtime. Can include infant massage after.
6:15-6:25 PM (Pajamas and feeding)
Change into clean diaper and pajamas. Feed (breast or bottle) in a calm, dim room. This is often the last food before sleep.
6:25-6:35 PM (Quiet time/reading)
Read a board book, sing soft songs, cuddle. Keep it boring and calm—the goal is wind-down, not entertainment.
6:35-7:00 PM (To bed)
Dim/turn off lights. Place baby in crib drowsy but awake (ideally). Say goodnight. Leave. Use a consistent exit phrase.
Bedtime Routine Tips:
- • Keep it 30-45 minutes long, starting 45 min before target sleep time
- • Use the same sequence every night (babies love predictability)
- • Dim or turn off lights during the routine
- • Keep the room cool (around 68-72°F is ideal)
- • Use white noise if your home is noisy
- • Avoid screens 1-2 hours before bedtime
- • Consider a sleepsack instead of loose blankets for safety
- • If using a pacifier, introduce it in the routine
Should I still swaddle my 8 month old?
No—by 8 months, swaddling should be stopped. Here's why:
Most 8 month olds roll both ways. A swaddled baby who rolls onto their stomach cannot roll back, creating a safety risk.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends stopping swaddling when babies show signs of rolling (usually by 4-5 months, certainly by 8 months).
Safe alternatives at 8 months:
- Sleep sacks/wearable blankets: Keep baby warm without loose blankets or swaddling
- Lightweight sleepers: Footie pajamas provide warmth
- Crib setup: Firm mattress, fitted sheet, no pillows, blankets, or bumpers
Note: If your baby has been swaddled and is now rolling, transition out gradually. Some babies sleep poorly for a few nights without swaddling, then adjust. This is temporary.
What if my 8 month old needs the pacifier to sleep?
It's common for 8 month olds to rely on pacifiers for sleep. Here are your options:
Using a pacifier at sleep is fine. The AAP recommends pacifiers for the first year as they may reduce SIDS risk. At 8 months, there's no need to wean yet.
If baby wakes because the pacifier fell out, you may need to replace it multiple times. Some families use the "disappearing pacifier" method (leaving multiple pacifiers in the crib so baby can find them).
Pacifier weaning is often easier closer to 2-3 years old. Weaning too early (at 8 months) may increase night wakings. Consider waiting until after 12 months.
Sleep Training Consideration: If you're planning to sleep train, having baby independent of the pacifier may help. But it's not required. Many families sleep train with pacifier use.
Can a 8 month old sleep through the night?
Yes—many 8 month olds can sleep through the night (10-12 hours) without feeds. Here's what you need to know:
By 8 months, most babies (especially those eating solids) can meet their nutrition needs during the day and don't medically need night feeds. But some babies may still wake.
Some 8 month olds sleep 10-12 hours without waking. Others wake once. Both are normal. Growth, individual metabolism, and hunger all play roles.
Night weaning (stopping night feeds) may be appropriate at 8 months with your pediatrician's agreement. But it's not necessary or required.
Check with Your Pediatrician: Before night weaning, confirm your baby is growing well and has been cleared to sleep without feeds. Some babies still need night nutrition.
Why is my 8 month old fighting sleep?
There are several reasons a 8 month old may fight sleep:
Developmental Reasons
- • Separation anxiety (object permanence)
- • Teething discomfort
- • Developmental leaps/mental growth
- • Increased awareness of surroundings
Sleep Schedule Reasons
- • Wake windows too long
- • Wake windows too short (undertired)
- • Last nap too late in the day
- • Too much stimulation before bed
Environmental Reasons
- • Room too warm or cold
- • Not dark enough
- • Noise disturbances
- • Uncomfortable sleep surface
Physical Reasons
- • Hunger or needing solids
- • Discomfort (gas, reflux)
- • Illness or ear infection
- • Diaper issues
What to Do: Check the most obvious causes first (wake windows, last nap timing, room temperature, hunger). If fighting sleep is sudden or severe, contact your pediatrician to rule out illness.
Why are my 8 month old naps suddenly short?
Short naps (30-45 minutes) can happen at 8 months for several reasons:
30-45 minutes is one complete sleep cycle. Some 8 month olds cannot connect sleep cycles independently yet. Longer naps develop over time.
If wake windows are 2.5-3+ hours but baby is transitioning, they may be overtired, leading to short, poor-quality naps.
At 8 months, separation anxiety may wake baby after one cycle. Hearing you nearby may trigger waking.
Developmental growth spurts can temporarily disrupt sleep. Naps typically return to normal after the leap passes.
Noise, temperature changes, or discomfort may wake baby after one cycle.
When Short Naps Are OK: If your baby seems happy and well-rested after 30-45 min naps, it may be sufficient. Not all babies need 2-hour naps. However, if baby seems tired or fussy after short naps, longer naps are beneficial.
How do I handle early morning wakings with my 8 month old?
Early morning wakings (before 6:00 AM) are common at 8 months. Here's how to address them:
If baby wakes before 6:00 AM, they may actually be overtired. Try moving bedtime 15-30 minutes earlier for a few days. Earlier bedtime may improve early wake times.
If the last nap ends too late, night sleep may be disrupted. Ensure last nap ends by 4:00-4:30 PM (3-nap schedule) or 3:15 PM (2-nap schedule).
If wake is before your target wake time, try keeping baby in crib (if safe) for 15-20 more minutes to see if they resettles. If they're awake and happy, this teaches them to self-entertain.
Ensure baby is not hungry, too hot/cold, or uncomfortable. Early wakings can sometimes indicate need for more daytime calories.
Note: Some variation in wake time is normal. A 6:00-7:00 AM window is still considered normal wake time. Perfect consistency comes later.
Safe Sleep Guidelines for 8 Month Olds
AAP Safe Sleep Recommendations (updated):
Firm, flat surface (crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets safety standards). Crib rails should be 2-3 inches apart.
Fitted sheet only. NO pillows, blankets, bumpers, or stuffed animals. All increase SIDS and suffocation risk.
Use sleep sacks instead of blankets. Appropriate weight for room temperature (tog rating).
AAP recommends room-sharing (baby's sleep space in your room) for at least the first 8 months, ideally the first year. This reduces SIDS risk.
Pacifier at nap and bedtime may reduce SIDS risk. No need to introduce if baby doesn't want one.
Keep room cool (68-72°F). Overheating increases SIDS risk.
Avoid wedges, positioners, sleep pods, and "co-sleepers" that attach to bed. These lack safety evidence.
Baby should be placed on back for naps and bedtime. If baby rolls to stomach on their own (which is common at 8 months), it's OK to leave them.
Avoiding Common Unsafe Practices:
- • Do NOT use sleep sacs that zip around the neck (strangulation risk)
- • Do NOT sleep in the same bed as baby (co-sleeping increases SIDS risk)
- • Do NOT use sleep props that haven't been safety tested
- • Do NOT overdress—overheating increases SIDS risk
- • Do NOT use crib bumpers or padding (suffocation risk)
SIDS Awareness: SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) peak is 1-4 months, but occurs through the first year. Safe sleep practices reduce risk significantly.
Sleep Training at 8 Months: Is It Appropriate?
Yes—8 Months is a Developmentally Appropriate Age for Sleep Training
At 8 months, babies have the cognitive capacity to learn to fall asleep independently. Sleep training at this age is widely considered safe and appropriate by pediatric sleep experts and the American Academy of Pediatrics (with pediatrician clearance).
Gentle Sleep Training Methods for 8 Months:
Place baby in crib when drowsy but not fully asleep. Gradually increase the level of awakeness at placement. Gentlest method.
Put baby in crib and pat/soothe while they fall asleep. Gradually reduce contact over days/weeks. Allows touch while encouraging independence.
Put baby in crib and leave without intervention. Baby learns to self-soothe. Works quickly but may be emotionally difficult for some parents.
Put baby in crib and allow brief crying before checking. Gradually extend time between check-ins. Middle ground between gentler and full extinction methods.
Sit by crib but don't touch. Gradually move chair toward door over weeks. Very gradual, gentle approach.
Before Starting Sleep Training at 8 Months:
- ✓ Consult your pediatrician to ensure baby is healthy
- ✓ Confirm baby is ready (rule out hunger, illness, developmental leaps)
- ✓ Ensure wake windows are age-appropriate
- ✓ Establish a solid bedtime routine first
- ✓ Choose a method you can consistently implement
- ✓ Ensure both parents are on the same page
- ✓ Be prepared for 3-7 nights of potential difficulty before improvement
Important: Sleep training works best when baby is well-fed, healthy, not in a developmental leap, and when both parents are ready and consistent. Success depends on implementation and timing.
Feeding Schedule for 8 Month Olds
Breast and Formula Feeding:
Most 8 month olds feed every 2.5-3.5 hours during the day. With a 3-nap schedule, this typically means 4-5 feeds per day. With a 2-nap schedule, this may be 4-5 feeds.
Breastfed: Baby typically nurses 5-8 min per side, 5-6 times per day. Formula-fed: Typically 6-8 oz per bottle, 4-5 bottles per day. Every baby is different.
Many 8 month olds no longer need night feeds nutritionally, but some babies wake and eat anyway. Feeding 0-1 times per night is typical.
Introduction of Solids at 8 Months:
Sitting up with minimal support, loss of tongue-thrust reflex, reaching for food, showing interest in what you're eating.
Iron-fortified infant cereal, single-ingredient pureed vegetables (carrots, sweet potato), single-ingredient pureed fruits (apple, pear). Introduce one food at a time.
Introduction of solids typically does not immediately improve sleep. However, a fuller belly during the day may support better nighttime sleep. Solids are more for nutrition and development than sleep.
Start with 1-2 times per day, 1-2 tablespoons per meal. Gradually increase frequency and amount as baby shows interest and tolerates solids well.
Sample Daily Feeding Schedule (3-Nap Schedule):
7:00 AM: Wake + Feed (breast/bottle)
9:30 AM: Feed after nap 1 + solids (if started)
1:00 PM: Feed after nap 2 + solids
3:45 PM: Feed after nap 3
5:45-6:00 PM: Feed before bedtime routine
7:30 PM: Bedtime (may or may not include feed)
Night: 0-1 feeds as needed
Consult Your Pediatrician: Every baby's feeding needs are different. Your pediatrician can confirm your baby is getting adequate nutrition and growing well. Don't compare feeding amounts to other babies.
Related Sleep Schedules
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References & Resources
This guide is based on current evidence from:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Sleep recommendations and safe sleep guidelines
- National Sleep Foundation - Baby sleep duration and quality research
- Pediatric sleep medicine research and clinical guidelines