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: baby sleep varies enormously. Avoid one-size-fits-all promises, and always prioritise feeding, growth and safe sleep advice.
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.
Want to know what is disturbing your baby's sleep?
The Petit Nuage sleep quiz looks at age, naps, night waking and settling habits to show you what to focus on first.
Take the 2-minute quiz →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: 24 September 2026.