Sleep needs and sleep problems change as people grow. This collection follows the years, with guides for each stage and for parents.
These guides are general information. For a child’s health or a pregnancy, follow the advice of your doctor or pediatrician.
Babies and young children
Early years bring broken nights. Read how much sleep babies need and a toddler bedtime routine.
School age and teens
Growing up changes the clock. See sleep for school-age children and why teenagers stay up late.
Adult life
Work, family and stress shape sleep. Read sleep in your 20s and 30s, sleep in your 40s and 50s and sleep after 60.
Parents and pregnancy
Rest is hard to find in these months. See how new parents can get more rest and sleeping comfortably during pregnancy.
Sleep by age at a glance
| Stage | Guide |
|---|---|
| Babies | How Much Sleep Babies Need |
| Toddlers | Toddler Bedtime Routine |
| Children aged 6 to 12 | How Much Sleep School-Age Children Need |
| Teenagers | Why Teenagers Stay Up Late |
| Adults | How Many Hours of Sleep Do You Really Need by Age |
Using these guides
- Find the stage that matches your household
- Check the usual sleep range for that age
- Pick one routine change to try
- Give it two weeks before judging it
- Speak to a doctor about anything that worries you
Keep in mind
- Every child and adult is different
- Routines matter at every age
- Safe sleep advice for babies comes from pediatric experts
- Medicines and sleep are a question for a doctor or pharmacist
Questions readers ask
How much sleep does an adult need?
Most adults need seven or more hours. This guide shows the ranges for every age.
Why do teenagers go to bed late?
The teen body clock shifts later. This guide explains and suggests what families can do.
Does sleep get worse with age?
It often changes. The later-life guide and the guide on challenges with age cover common patterns.