Home › Baby sleep guides › 12-month-old-baby-sleep
Sleep by age · United Kingdom

12-month-old baby sleep: naps, bedtime and common changes

At one year old, sleep often looks more settled than in the early months, but transitions can still cause wobble.

Key takeawayA practical guide to sleep around the first birthday.
12 month old sleepone year old sleepnap transition

What often changes at one year

Development, separation anxiety, teething and early attempts to drop naps can all affect sleep.

Keep two naps if needed

Some one-year-olds still need two naps. Dropping to one too soon can backfire.

Bedtime may need adjusting

As naps shift, bedtime sometimes needs to move a little earlier or later.

Important: every baby's sleep is different. Avoid one-size-fits-all promises, and always put feeding, growth and safer sleep first.
Safer sleep reminder. For babies, use a firm, flat sleep surface and follow the latest safer sleep advice from the NHS and The Lullaby Trust.

What's affecting your baby's sleep?

The Petit Nuage Sleep quiz considers your baby's age, naps, night waking and how they settle, helping you work out what to focus on first.

Take the 2-minute quiz →
Ready to get started?
Get your baby sleep guide — £22.90 →

Secure checkout with Hotmart · Instant access to your digital guide

Frequently asked questions

Should a 12 month old have one nap?

Some do, but many still need two for a while.

Why has bedtime become harder?

Nap transitions and developmental changes are common culprits.

Can night waking return at this age?

Yes. Sleep is rarely a straight line.

Reference sources: NHS baby sleep guidance · The Lullaby Trust safer sleep information. Last updated: 28 October 2026.