The National Sleep Foundation recommends 11–14 hours for toddlers. 9–16 hours may be appropriate depending on individual variation.
Toddlers (ages 1–2) need one of the highest total sleep amounts in the lifespan. Sleep drives neural pruning, growth hormone release, and emotional regulation. Naps are still essential at this stage — the nighttime block accounts for roughly two-thirds of total sleep, with the remainder in one or two daytime naps.
Every number on this page assumes you\u2019re an average sleeper. You probably aren\u2019t. Our 2-minute calculator gives you the exact bedtime that matches your cycle length — not the generic 90-minute assumption.
Start the calibration→The National Sleep Foundation recommends 11–14 hours per night for toddlers. 9–16 hours may be appropriate for individual variation.
11 hours is the floor of the recommended range — sufficient for most toddlers on a consistent schedule, but below the middle of the NSF range. If you feel tired at this duration, try adding 30 minutes for a week.
Bedtime depends on wake time, not age alone. Most toddlers need 6 complete sleep cycles (~540 minutes, though personal cycle length varies from 75–115 min). Count backwards from the intended wake time to set a cycle-aligned bedtime.
Toddlers (ages 1–2) need one of the highest total sleep amounts in the lifespan. Sleep drives neural pruning, growth hormone release, and emotional regulation. Naps are still essential at this stage — the nighttime block accounts for roughly two-thirds of total sleep, with the remainder in one or two daytime naps.
Yes — children under 5 typically need one or two daytime naps.