2 month old sleep schedule & daily routine

How can a daily routine look for a 2-month-old baby?

For a 2-month-old baby, the daily routine revolves around adapting to the baby's needs for sleep, feeding, and closeness. Be attentive to your baby's signals and follow their natural patterns for eating and sleeping.

Typically, babies at this age need about 4–5 naps during the day. At this stage, the need for sleep is still so high that you don't need to worry about naps interfering with nighttime sleep.

During their awake time, babies often spend it eating, being held, and interacting with parents. It’s also beneficial to give your baby some tummy time daily. Some babies may start giving responsive smiles and lifting their heads during tummy time.

Example of a sleep routine for a 2-month-old baby

At this age, naps are still irregular, but if you notice a pattern emerging, it’s fine to start gently encouraging it. For instance, you can begin putting your baby down for naps or bedtime at consistent times.

However, it’s crucial to stay flexible and prioritize your baby's unique signals and needs.

Example of sleep and wake times for a 2-month-old:

7:00 AM: Wake up for the day

8:00–9:00 AM: First nap

10:30–11:30 AM: Second nap

1:00–2:30 PM: Third nap

4:00–4:45 PM: Fourth nap

6:00–6:30 PM: Fifth nap

8:00–8:30 PM: Bedtime for the night

8:30 PM–7:00 AM: Regular night feedings

Remember, sleep patterns for a 2-month-old baby can vary significantly from day to day. The most important thing is to follow your baby’s cues and adapt to their needs.

Your baby’s sleep needs will evolve rapidly at this age, and just as you adjust to a routine, it may need to change again.

Get help creating a sleep routine with Napper

Creating a sleep routine can be challenging, but Napper makes it simple. Log your baby's sleep for a short period, and the app will generate a flexible sleep schedule tailored to your baby's unique patterns. Napper also adapts as your baby grows.

Feeding a 2-month-old baby

At two months, your baby will still be exclusively consuming breast milk or formula. There’s no need to aim for a strict feeding schedule. The general recommendation is to feed on demand—that is, as often as your baby wants—even if they want to nurse or take a bottle frequently on some days.

Try to offer your breast or bottle at early hunger cues, before your baby becomes fussy or starts crying.

How to support your 2-month-old baby’s sleep and development

Be responsive to your baby’s cues

Learn your baby’s early signs of tiredness and try to put them down to sleep before they become overtired. This can make daily life smoother and help establish a sense of routine. Feeding at early hunger signals can also help.

Provide comfort and closeness

By responding to your baby’s needs, you create a sense of security that supports both sleep and development. Spend time skin-to-skin and keep your baby close in a baby carrier or sling. You can't spoil your baby with too much closeness, comfort, or breastfeeding.

Spend time outdoors

Try to spend time outdoors in natural daylight with your baby. Exposure to daylight helps regulate your baby’s circadian rhythm and promotes better, more consolidated sleep at night.

Introduce a bedtime routine

Consider establishing a simple and calming bedtime routine that you follow every day before putting your baby down for the night. Perform the same steps in the same order daily, though it doesn’t have to be at the same time—follow your baby’s cues for tiredness.

“Play” at two months

At two months, play is primarily about closeness and interaction with you as a parent. Your baby loves looking at your face and hearing your voice. Many babies begin giving responsive smiles at this age. Sing, talk, and make eye contact, or let your baby observe you while you do things around the house. You can also carry your baby around and explore different objects together.

Feeding focus

At this age, sleep and feeding are closely linked. If you’re experiencing frequent night wakings, focusing on feeding can often help. Try offering your breast or bottle at early hunger cues during the day and as often as your baby seems interested.

If you’re concerned about frequent night wakings or whether your baby is eating enough, consult your pediatrician or nurse.

Practice independent sleep

Practicing independent sleep involves giving your baby the experience of falling asleep on their own with minimal support, while you remain nearby. You can try letting your baby nap in a bassinet or crib, slowing down the stroller before they fully fall asleep, or occasionally skipping nursing or rocking as they drift off.

Tummy time

Allow your baby to practice tummy time several times a day for short periods. This strengthens their neck muscles and prepares them for rolling and sitting. If your baby dislikes tummy time on the floor, try placing them on your chest while you recline.

How much sleep does a 2-month-old baby need?

At two months, most babies need about 14–17 hours of sleep per day. This typically includes 8–9 hours of nighttime sleep and 6–8 hours of daytime sleep spread across several short naps. Let your baby sleep as much as they need. At this age, naps usually don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.

How often and how long should a 2-month-old nap?

A 2-month-old baby typically takes 4–5 naps a day, depending on the length of each nap.

Each nap can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Some babies take longer stretches of sleep, while others prefer several shorter naps. It’s also normal for sleep patterns to vary daily.

What is a 2-month-old baby’s wake window?

At two months, babies are usually able to stay awake for about 45–90 minutes at a time. Watch for signs of tiredness, such as rubbing their eyes, yawning, or losing interest in their surroundings. Try putting your baby down before they become overtired to make it easier for them to fall asleep.

When is a good bedtime for a 2-month-old baby?

The best bedtime for your baby is highly individual. Many parents put their baby down for the night between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

Pay attention to tiredness signals in the evening. If your baby is in a bouncer while you finish dinner, face them toward you so you can see their face. If they show signs of tiredness, it’s often a good idea to put them to bed, even if they could stay awake longer.