How can I help my baby who is taking short naps?

Somewhere between the sleepy newborn days and the busy stage of having a baby on the move, you may begin to notice a new sleep pattern: the 45-minute nap. Rest assured, short naps are common during this stage, and we’re here to help you understand why they happen and what you can do to support your little one. And remember, every baby will have great nap days, and a few shorter naps along the way!

First things first, we want you to know that it is normal for babies to sleep for 30-45 minutes, fuss, toss & turn for 10-15 minutes, then doze back off for 30 minutes or a bit more. Let's talk about how to handle short naps.

There are a few things we can do for short naps:

• Routine
  • Consistency is key (when realistically possible)!
    • Follow along with Moms on Call's Typical Day schedules located in the Moms on Call Books to help with short naps. See *Crazy Day Tips for getting through those harder days while keeping on track!
  • Sometimes, moving up to the following routine is needed when having short naps.
    • Check with your  Moms on Call Consultant to see if moving up is best for your baby!
  • Lastly, the pre-nap routine consists of the following:
    • Diaper Change
    • Snuggle Time
    • Storytime
• Environment
  • We recommend that babies sleep in a crib in their room. The crib should be free of toys, blankets, pillows, and any stimulation.
  • Blinds can be left slightly open for natural light to come in. (Also, put any hanging cords cut up high so babies or toddlers cannot reach them).
  • White noise! The right sound machine can make all the difference with short naps. White noise is reminiscent of the sounds that babies hear inside the womb. The white noise machine should be turned up loud enough for you to hear on the other side of the door.
• Under 12 weeks of age, swaddle right, tight, tight, tight! Watch the Moms on Call Swaddling Video for tips on getting swaddled right!
• Over 12 weeks of age, we recommend footed pajamas.

What to Know About Short Naps

While we can’t make our baby and or toddler sleep, we can create an environment and routine that gives them the best opportunity to rest well. Having these pieces in place can help support one or two restorative naps throughout the day. The good news is that we typically begin to see short naps improve once babies are unswaddled and rolling comfortably, usually between 5 and 6 months of age. Stay consistent and give yourself grace, you’ve got this!

Remember, short naps are a normal part of your little one’s sleep journey, and consistency will make a difference over time. Keep focusing on what you can control, the routine, the sleep environment and the opportunity to rest, while giving both yourself and your baby plenty of grace along the way. 

For additional support, age-appropriate schedules and practical guidance right at your fingertips, visit our app page and explore the new Moms on Call App. You’ve got this!

Now Available: Online Booking with Our Premier Consultants

With each and every Moms on Call Consulting experience , we have one goal in mind— to equip you with the confidence you need to become the best parent possible for your child.  We are proud to partner with Certified Consultants who are uniquely trained to work with families utilizing the Moms on Call philosophy. All consultants are licensed medical professionals with pediatric experience who have used Moms on Call within their own homes.