5 months sleep schedule and daily routine

What does a daily routine look like for a 5-month-old baby?

At 5 months, most babies develop a more predictable sleep pattern, often taking 2–5 naps per day, each lasting between 30 minutes and 2 hours. However, this can still vary, and some days, naps may not follow a regular pattern.

Your baby is becoming more aware and curious about their surroundings, enjoying "play" by holding and exploring objects with their hands and mouth. They may also start exploring toys and showing interest in different textures and movements.

Your baby’s strength and coordination are improving rapidly. Many babies begin learning to sit up and hold their neck steadily with the support of a highchair. Some might start making movements resembling crawling while lying on their tummy or show signs of wanting to be picked up by reaching out their arms.

Example of a sleep routine for a 5-month-old baby

07:00: Wake up for the day 08:30–10:00: First nap 12:00–13:30: Second nap 15:30–16:30: Third nap 19:00: Bedtime preparations 19:30–20:00: Nighttime sleep 20:00–07:00: Possibly a few awakenings for feeding

Note: All babies are different and develop at their own pace. Follow your baby’s cues and needs. Tools like Napper can help you create a sleep schedule tailored to your baby’s unique patterns.

Find the perfect sleep routine with Napper

Creating a good sleep routine can feel challenging, but with Napper, it’s simple. By logging your baby’s sleep habits for a few days, the app provides a personalized sleep schedule that aligns with your baby’s natural rhythm. Napper automatically adjusts as your baby grows and develops.

Supporting your 5-month-old baby’s sleep and development

Take walks outdoors

Spend at least two hours outdoors in daylight daily. Exposure to natural light helps your baby develop their internal sleep clock, potentially leading to fewer night wakings as they grow. Being outdoors also stimulates their senses and contributes to cognitive development.

Introduce a bedtime routine

If you haven’t established a bedtime routine yet, now is a good time. A consistent bedtime routine creates a sense of security and can make it easier for your baby to fall asleep in the evening.

Encourage independent sleep

Taking small steps toward falling asleep independently can significantly improve your baby’s ability to link sleep cycles at night, resulting in longer, more restful stretches. Occasionally let your baby fall asleep without much active support (e.g., rocking or feeding) while staying nearby to provide comfort if needed.

Start brushing their teeth

When the first teeth appear, introduce a gentle morning and evening toothbrushing routine. Begin with a clean finger and water, transitioning to a baby toothbrush once your baby is used to the sensation. This helps establish good oral hygiene habits early.

Babyproof your home

As your baby starts to move more, it’s important to babyproof your home. Move dangerous items out of reach, install safety gates, and cover electrical outlets. Ensure their sleep environment is safe to prevent falls if they roll or crawl during the night.

Play and stimulation for development

• Sing and talk: Songs, rhymes, and conversations support language development and strengthen your bond.

• Encourage movement: At 5 months, some babies start rolling or propping themselves up on their arms. Encourage movement by playing on a mat or in a baby gym and placing toys within reach.

• Explore mirrors and toys: Many babies enjoy looking at their reflection and playing with toys that move or make noise. Choose toys that stimulate different senses, such as a crinkly soft book or brightly colored toys.

• Use a baby gym: Baby gyms remain a great place for play, and various materials and textures can excite your baby’s curiosity.

How much should a 5-month-old baby sleep?

At 5 months, most babies need 12–15 hours of sleep per day. Typically, about 10–11 hours are spent sleeping at night, with 2–5 hours of daytime sleep divided into 2–3 naps lasting 45 minutes to 2 hours. Some babies may take more frequent but shorter naps. Sleep needs vary based on activity levels and individual development, so it’s important to stay flexible and follow your baby’s cues.

How long is a 5-month-old’s wake window?

At this age, most babies can stay awake for about 2–3 hours before needing sleep again. The first wake window of the day is often the longest, with shorter wake windows in the afternoon. Watch for tiredness cues and aim to put your baby down before they become overtired.

What is a good bedtime for a 5-month-old baby?

The ideal bedtime for a 5-month-old varies depending on individual and cultural differences. Many parents choose a bedtime between 18:30 and 20:00. Observe what works best for your family.

The most important thing is to watch for tiredness signs in the evening and put your baby to bed when they need it. Try to maintain a consistent bedtime and establish a calming evening routine to help your baby understand it’s time to sleep.