Wake Windows

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What is a wake window?

A wake window is the length of time between two different sleep periods. It can be the amount of time between waking up in the morning and the first nap, the time between one nap and another nap, or the time between the last nap of the day and bedtime. For example, if your child woke up at 6:30 am and took a first nap at 9:30 am, then your wake window would be 3 hours.

When wake windows are too long

If your infant or child’s wake windows are too long, meaning the amount of time between one sleep time and the next is overly long, it can make it harder for her to fall asleep and stay asleep. An overly tired child can have difficulty falling asleep and may wake up too soon.

When wake windows are too short

When wake windows are too short, meaning the time between two sleep periods is too short, your child may struggle to fall asleep and will remain awake longer in his/her sleep space before dozing off. Short wake windows can lead to shorter naps and impact nighttime rest, such as waking up before fully rested because of not being tired enough to go to sleep and stay asleep.

How to decide your child’s wake windows?

Wake window times are often decided based on age. However, every child is different, and if the suggested wake window times for your child’s age are not working for you, it’s ok to try a different wake window time. Sometimes, trial and error is the best way to find what works for your kiddo.

When to adjust my child’s wake windows?

Knowing what signs to look for in a child who is ready to bump up to a longer wake window is very important. Some things to look for include:

• Child’s ability to stay awake longer between naps without appearing tired or cranky

• Child protesting going down for a nap at the usual time

• Child takes longer and longer to fall asleep once being put down for naps or at bedtime

• Child wakes up early from a nap because of not being tired or sleepy enough to have gone down for a nap

Hopefully, this information can help you find the best wake windows that work for your child. Finding the right wake windows can provide restful naps and nighttime sleep, leading to a happier child and a more joyful you!