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Wake Windows vs. Nap Schedules: What’s Best for Your Baby?

  • hello94249
  • May 6
  • 2 min read

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By Jess from Little Loves Sleep


When you’re in the thick of sleep struggles, it's easy to feel confused by all the advice out there, especially when it comes to wake windows versus nap schedules.


So… which one should you follow?


The truth is: both can work, but the best choice depends on your baby, their temperament, and your lifestyle.


Let’s explore what each one means, and how to know what might work best for your little one.


What Are Wake Windows?


Wake windows refer to the amount of time your baby can comfortably stay awake between naps or before bedtime. They’re usually based on age, and help prevent overtiredness (which can lead to resistance, short naps, or frequent wakeups).

Pros of wake windows:

  • Flexible day-to-day

  • Helpful during transitions (e.g. dropping a nap)

  • Great for responsive, baby-led routines

Challenges:

  • Can feel unpredictable

  • May lead to inconsistent nap timing

  • Not ideal for babies who thrive on rhythm


What Is a Nap Schedule?


A nap schedule sets predictable nap and bedtime times based on your baby’s developmental stage. Instead of watching the clock from when your baby wakes, naps happen at roughly the same time each day.


Pros of nap schedules:

  • Provides rhythm and predictability

  • Can support babies with sensitive or intense temperaments

  • Helps with planning outings, care, or daycare transitions

Challenges:

  • Less flexible during developmental shifts

  • Can feel rigid for more “go with the flow” babies

  • Requires some adjustment to land in the right rhythm


So… Which One Is Best?


Honestly? Neither is better — they just suit different babies.


You might prefer wake windows if:

  • Your baby’s needs vary day to day

  • You want to be flexible with naps

  • You’re still figuring out their sleep rhythm


You might prefer a nap schedule if:

  • Your baby thrives with predictability

  • You’re juggling work, daycare or siblings

  • You’ve noticed they settle more easily with routine


Many families use a blend, using wake windows to shape naps early on, and gradually shifting into a predictable rhythm as sleep consolidates, around 5-6 months of age.


Here’s the Most Important Thing:


If sleep still feels like a battle, even when the timing looks “right” there’s probably something deeper going on.


At Little Loves Sleep, I help families uncover the real reasons sleep feels hard by exploring all ref flags that can impact sleep such as allergies and intolerances, nutritional deficiencies, oral dysfunction, sleep disordered breathing, feeding issues, gut issues and more.


Want My Free Guide?


I’ve created a gentle, easy-to-follow PDF that explains both approaches and helps you figure out which one might suit your baby best. DM me “wake windows” on Instagram or Facebook and I’ll send it to you for free.

Or click here to book a free Sleep Assessment Call if you’re ready to get some real support.


Jess xx

 
 
 

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