4-3 nap transition tips
As parents, the transition from four naps to three naps per day is a major milestone in your child's development, and it can be an exciting time for you and your little one. Less naps in the day usually means a little more freedom- yay!
Fortunately, the 4-3 nap transition is a very forgiving one! It is easy to add an extra nap in by keeping the awake times lower as opposed to longer and / or using an earlier bedtime as needed. Generally, this transition occurs at around 4 months of age, but it may vary depending on the individual child (with a range of 3-5 months being normal).
Here are some signs that may indicate it's time to make the transition to 3 naps:
Difficulty falling asleep: If your child consistently takes a long time to fall asleep during one of their naps, it could be a sign that they're not tired enough and may need more wake time.
Nap refusals (specifically the 4th one)
Early morning wake ups (unexplained by things like teething, illness, etc)
Difficulty settling at bedtime: If your child is consistently resisting bedtime or taking a long time to fall asleep, it could indicate they are not tired enough due to too much daytime sleep.
Maxing out awake times for their age (decreases total sleep below recommended amounts/baby is CRANKY with less sleep/more wake time
Naps are getting too late and pushing bedtime too late (usually past 8/8:30pm)
Unusual night wakings that weren’t happening before
The maxed out wake times on 4 naps is usually 1.5-1.75 hours. Once most of your WTs are 1.75 hours, you typically run out of time in the day to get to 4 naps without bedtime becoming super late.
4-3 nap transition tips:
Be patient and flexible: Transitioning to a new nap schedule can take time as you gradually increase the wake times. As mentioned before, this is a very forgiving transition and probably the easiest one!
Maintain a consistent routine: Continue to follow a regular daily routine with consistent out of crib time and wake times. Gradually increase your child’s wake times starting with 1 wake time. Usually, that can look like 1.75-2/2/2/1.75-2. When you land on 3 naps, your child’s wake times will be 2-2.25 hours. (younger babies will stay on the low end of wake times and older babies usually need more).
Once you have committed to the 3 naps, use some “no nap before rules” of 830/1130/230 with bedtime no earlier than 6pm. Utilize crib hour to make sure you are allowing them a chance to fall back asleep or extend a short nap! The no nap before rules help you get to bedtime without adding in another nap.
Remember that each child is different, and the timeline for dropping naps can vary. If you're unsure whether your child is ready to transition to fewer naps or need guidance on making the change, set up a free 15-minute consult to discuss the schedules and transition package!
