19 month old sleep schedule: Bedtime and nap schedule
Now that your 19 month old has settled into a 1-nap schedule, you should find it easier to follow a predictable routine where naptime and bedtime occur around the same time each day. Regular bedtimes aren’t just easier for you to plan your evenings but are incredibly beneficial for children. Research has shown that irregular bedtimes are linked to difficulties such as hyperactivity, acting out, and being emotionally withdrawn.
Editor’s note
The recommendations listed below represent the average amount of sleep typically needed at this age. However, please note there is a range of normal as some children have lower or higher sleep needs. Your child’s schedule may vary, and that is normal.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
How much should a 19 month old sleep?
Sample 19 month old sleep schedule
Naptime schedule for a 19 month old
How much should a 19 month old sleep?
At 19 months old, we’ll continue to aim for about 13 hours of total sleep per day (11 - 12 hours at night and 2 - 3 hours of day sleep in 1 nap). Most children this age need 5 - 5.75 hours of awake time in between sleep periods.
Just remember that every tot is one-of-a-kind and their sleep needs may vary. Don't sweat trying to hit the exact sleep hour goals — the recommended hours are just a rough guide. Checking in on your little one's mood and energy levels is just as important as keeping tabs on their sleep, to make sure they're getting the shuteye they need.
[Note: for children who were born early, we go by their adjusted age for sleep development.]
Top sleep tip for 19 month olds
Busy toddlers often nap more easily if they’ve had the opportunity to exercise their minds and bodies beforehand. Incorporate some extra movement before naptime with a game of soccer outside, or a dance party in the living room. Not only does it get them moving, you get to jam out to some of your favorite songs as well.
Sleep fact for 19 month old babies
Transitioning away from the crib before 3 years of age can turn a great sleeper into a “jack in the box” toddler who pops out of bed frequently. Your 19 month old may surprise you with exciting new tricks regularly but plan on keeping the crib until your child is developmentally ready to have the impulse control needed to stay in bed for the entire night. This typically falls around 3 years old, which is why it's recommended as a transition period.
Sample 19 month old sleep schedule
Note: Sleep needs vary by child and this chart should be viewed as an example.
Naptime schedule for a 19 month old
Hopefully, by this point, you are past the 18 month regression and moving into a pretty predictable schedule.
How long should a 19 month old nap?
A 19 month old’s nap schedule should allow for 2 - 3 hours of daytime sleep, and 1 nap per day. Most toddlers need between 5 - 5.75 hours of awake time in between sleep periods at this age.
How many naps for a 19 month old?
Plan for 1 nap a day, typically 5 hours after waking in the morning. It’s important to offer lunch before the nap, to help ensure that your toddler doesn’t wake early asking for snacks. If they’re not eating much lunch (because hello, toddlers), try offering them a tried-and-true snack just before naptime to make sure they won’t be too hungry to fall asleep.
If your toddler is struggling to fall asleep at bedtime, consider whether the awake period between nap and bedtime is age-appropriate. Insufficient awake time before bed often leads to lots of playtime in the crib before eventually falling asleep, whereas overtired toddlers are more likely to cry.
1-nap schedule
| Morning rise | 7:00 AM |
| Nap | 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (2 hour nap) 5 hours of of awake time before nap |
| Get ready for bed | 7:00 PM |
| Asleep | 7:45 PM 5.75 hours of awake time before bedtime |
1-nap schedule with short nap/early bedtime
| Morning rise | 7:00 AM |
| Nap | 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM (1.25 hour nap) 5 hours of of awake time before nap |
| Get ready for bed | 6:15 PM |
| Asleep | 7:00 PM 5.75 hours of awake time before bedtime |
Bedtime for a 19 month old
If your toddler is struggling to fall asleep at bedtime, consider whether the awake period between nap and bedtime is age-appropriate. Insufficient awake time before bed often leads to lots of playtime in the crib before eventually falling asleep, whereas overtired toddlers are more likely to cry.
What time should a 19 month old go to bed?
Ideally, your 19 month old will be getting 11 - 12 hours of sleep at night, so bedtime should be about 12 - 13 hours after waking in the morning, as long as they nap well. If your toddler takes a short nap, you’ll want to offer an earlier bedtime to help limit overtiredness, which often leads to shortened nighttime sleep - not to mention an early wake time that you definitely want to avoid.
If you're curious about what lies ahead in the coming month, glimpse into the future to see what you might experience once your baby is 20 months old.
19 month old baby sleep FAQ
Q: Can a 19 month old baby sleep through the night?
A:
Yes, at 19 months old, most babies are capable of sleeping through the night without parental assistance or feedings. If your toddler has strong independent sleeping skills and gets enough calories throughout the day, they’re more likely to sleep 11 - 12 hours without calling out for water/books/toys/snacks/hugs.
Q: How often do 19 month old babies sleep?
A:
When establishing your 19 month old’s sleep schedule, you’ll want to keep wake windows between 5 - 5.75 hours long. Generally, toddlers will stay awake for about 5 hours in the morning before their first nap, and up to 5.75 hours before bedtime.
Q: How much nighttime sleep for a 19 month old is appropriate?
A:
Ideally, your 19 month old baby will sleep for 11 - 12 hours at night. However, sleep needs do vary. If your baby has lower sleep needs than the average 13 hours of total sleep, pediatric sleep experts agree that you’ll still want to ensure that they get a minimum of 10 hours of nighttime sleep. Wearing them out with lots of physical activities and games is a great way to ensure they’re tired enough to sleep, and way more effective than Netflix.
Q: How much daytime sleep for a 19 month old is appropriate?
A:
Target 1 nap per day, with about 2 - 3 hours of day sleep for your 19 month old’s nap schedule. Even if they don’t sleep for the entire time, ensure they have some quiet time in their crib. (Hey, you’ve earned it!)
Q: Is there a 19 month old sleep regression?
A:
There’s an 18 month regression that typically occurs between 14 - 18 months of age, and can last 2 - 6 weeks. While it doesn’t impact every toddler, your 19 month old may experience a temporary change in sleep habits as a result. While it can be frustrating, or even trick you into thinking your toddler is done napping for good, don’t be fooled. Those squirmy little bodies still need their sleep to be adorably curious and upbeat. Keep a consistent routine for nap and bedtime, and encourage them to stay in their crib in a dark, quiet room.
Note: The content on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your doctor, pediatrician, or medical professional. If you have questions or concerns, you should contact a medical professional.
