2 Month Old Sleep Schedule
Gentle sleep guide for 8-11 week old babies: wake windows, flexible routines, celebrating social smiles, and building healthy sleep foundations as circadian rhythms emerge.
Circadian rhythms are developing - sleep is becoming more predictable!
Evidence-based guide reviewed by pediatric sleep experts
Last updated: January 22, 2025
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice or professional sleep consultation. Every baby is unique. Always consult your pediatrician about your baby's specific sleep, health, and safety needs. If you have concerns about your baby's breathing, development, feeding, or sleep patterns, seek professional guidance immediately.
2 Month Sleep Schedule Guidelines
What's New at 2 Months (8-11 Weeks)?
At 2 months, your baby is smiling responsively and may even start cooing. This social engagement makes wake windows so much more joyful!
Circadian rhythms are developing. You may notice more consistent wake times and bedtime becoming slightly more predictable (though still variable).
Wake windows increase from 60-75 minutes at 8 weeks to 75-90 minutes by 11 weeks. Baby can handle more interaction and activity.
Most 2 month olds settle into 4-6 naps per day (down from 5-8 at 1 month). Sleep is gradually becoming less fragmented.
Quick Reference: 2 Month Old Sleep (8-11 Weeks)
📚 Data Sources:
Guidelines adapted from:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- National Sleep Foundation
- Pediatric sleep research (see References section below)
⚕️ Consult Your Pediatrician: These are general planning guidelines. Every baby is different. If you have concerns about your baby's sleep, feeding, or development, please consult your healthcare provider.
Why Use Wake Windows Instead of a Fixed Schedule?
You might be wondering: If this is a sleep schedule page, why am I seeing a wake window calculator instead of exact times?
Here's the truth: At 2 months (8-11 weeks), your baby's circadian rhythm is developing but not yet fully established. While wake times are becoming more predictable than at 1 month, they can still vary by 15-30 minutes from day to day. A rigid "7:00 AM wake, 8:30 AM nap" schedule can still lead to frustration.
What ARE Wake Windows?
Wake windows are the amount of time your baby can comfortably stay awake between sleeps. For 2 month olds, this is typically 60-90 minutes (gradually increasing throughout this period).
Instead of watching the clock for specific nap times, you watch how long baby has been awake and respond to their sleep cues. This flexible approach works WITH your baby's natural rhythms, not against them.
How the calculator below helps: Enter your baby's wake-up time, and it will show you the window when they'll likely need their next nap (based on age-appropriate wake windows for 2 month olds). This adapts to YOUR baby's actual day.
Bottom line: At 2 months, wake windows provide a flexible routine that's becoming more consistent. By 3-4 months, your baby will follow more predictable patterns, but right now, wake windows and sleep cues remain the most responsive approach.
Next Nap Window Calculator
What's Normal at 2 Months
At 2 months, circadian rhythms are developing. You may notice wake times becoming more consistent (within 15-30 min), though there's still day-to-day variation.
Nighttime feeds are still essential. Some babies may have one longer stretch (4-5 hours), but most still wake multiple times. This is normal and healthy.
Most 2 month olds have clearer day/night distinction. Bedtime is becoming more consistent, and the longest sleep stretch typically occurs early in the night.
4-6 naps per day is typical. Some naps may be 30 minutes; others could be 1-2 hours. Nap length will continue to vary—this is still normal development.
Rocking, feeding to sleep, holding, swaddling (if not rolling)—whatever works is still appropriate. Independent sleep is not developmentally expected yet.
Remember: You're still in the early days. The goal is not perfect sleep—it's responsive caregiving, healthy foundations, and celebrating small wins (like those beautiful social smiles!). Every baby develops at their own pace.
Wake Windows Guide: 2 Month Old (8-11 Weeks)
Age-Specific Wake Windows
60-75 minutes. Wake windows are gradually lengthening. Baby is more alert and engaged during awake times.
70-85 minutes. Baby can handle slightly longer periods of activity and interaction. Social engagement is increasing!
75-90 minutes. Approaching 3 months. Some babies can handle up to 90 minutes by the end of week 11, though many still need 75-80 minutes.
At 2 months, wake windows are fairly consistent throughout the day. Unlike older babies, you won't see dramatic lengthening from morning to evening. The first wake window may be slightly shorter or longer than others—watch your baby's cues.
Sleep Cues to Watch For
Early Signs (Sleepy Window)
- •Staring into space or glazed look
- •Quieting down, less movement
- •Yawning (even one yawn is a cue)
- •Rubbing eyes or face
- •Turning head away from stimulation
- •Losing interest in people or toys
Late Signs (Overtired)
- •Crying or fussing
- •Arching back
- •Jerky arm/leg movements
- •Clenched fists
- •Difficult to soothe
- •Fighting sleep despite exhaustion
At 2 months, wake windows are still quite short. By the time you change a diaper, feed baby, and have some playtime, it's often already time for the next nap. Start your sleep routine around 50-70 minutes after waking to avoid overtiredness.
Sample Daily Schedule: 2 Month Old
Important: This is a flexible sample, not a rigid schedule. At 2 months, you're following wake windows more than clock times—this is just to give you an idea of the rhythm. Your baby's day will look different, and that's completely normal.
| Approximate Time | Activity | Duration/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Wake + Feed | Morning wake time (more consistent than 1 month) |
| 7:15-8:15 AM | Awake Time | Diaper change, tummy time, social interaction (60-75 min WW) |
| 8:15-9:30 AM | Nap 1 | First nap: 45-90 min (varies) |
| 9:30 AM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 9:45-11:00 AM | Awake Time | Diaper, playtime, looking at books (75 min WW) |
| 11:00 AM-12:15 PM | Nap 2 | Morning nap: 30-90 min |
| 12:15 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 12:30-1:45 PM | Awake Time | Diaper, outdoor time, singing (75 min WW) |
| 1:45-3:00 PM | Nap 3 | Afternoon nap: 45-90 min |
| 3:00 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 3:15-4:30 PM | Awake Time | Diaper, baby massage, gentle play (75 min WW) |
| 4:30-5:30 PM | Nap 4 (Catnap) | Short catnap: 30-60 min (bridges to bedtime) |
| 5:30 PM | Feed | Feed upon waking |
| 5:45-7:00 PM | Awake Time | Calm activities, dim lights (75 min WW) |
| 7:00-7:30 PM | Bedtime Routine | Bath, diaper, sleep sack/swaddle, feed, lullaby |
| 7:30-8:00 PM | Bedtime | Down for night (timing becoming more consistent) |
| 11:00 PM-12:00 AM | Night Feed 1 | Feed when baby wakes (3-4 hour stretch possible) |
| 2:30-3:30 AM | Night Feed 2 | Feed when baby wakes |
| 5:30-6:30 AM | Night Feed 3 (Optional) | Some babies may not need this feed; treat as early morning |
Remember: This schedule is just a sample! Your baby may take 4 naps, 5 naps, or 6 naps. Bedtime may be 7:30 PM one night and 8:30 PM the next. Night wakings may be every 2.5 hours or every 4 hours. All of this is normal at 2 months.
Night period tip: Keep the "night" period to a maximum of 11-12 hours (e.g., 7:30 PM - 7:00 AM or 8:00 PM - 7:30 AM). This supports developing circadian rhythms and helps establish a consistent bedtime.
How many naps should a 2 month old take?
Most 2 month olds (8-11 weeks) take 4-6 naps per day. Sleep is gradually consolidating. Here's what's typical:
- At 8 weeks: Often 5-6 naps per day, with wake windows of 60-75 minutes
- By 10-11 weeks: May consolidate to 4-5 naps as wake windows lengthen (75-90 min)
- Total daytime sleep: 4-6 hours across all naps (though some babies sleep more, some less)
Remember: There is still variability at this age. As long as your baby is feeding well, having wet/dirty diapers, and meeting developmental milestones, their sleep pattern is likely fine!
How long can a 2 month old nap?
Nap lengths at 2 months are still unpredictable and can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours:
- •Short naps: 30-45 minutes (common at this age)
- •Longer naps: 60-120 minutes (some babies, some days)
- •Guideline: Try not to let any single nap exceed 2 hours to protect nighttime sleep and feeding schedule
It's okay if naps are inconsistent! At 2 months, babies are still learning to connect sleep cycles. One day all naps might be 45 minutes; the next day they take a 90-minute nap. This unpredictability is normal and typically improves by 4-6 months.
When should the last nap be for a 2 month old?
At 2 months, bedtime is becoming more consistent, so the "last nap" concept is starting to make more sense:
- If bedtime is 7:30-8:00 PM: The last nap often ends around 5:00-6:00 PM (a catnap that bridges to bedtime)
- If bedtime is 8:30-9:00 PM: The last nap may end around 6:30-7:00 PM
- Key principle: Keep wake windows appropriate (75-90 min before bed) to prevent overtiredness
Tip: At 2 months, you can start aiming for a more consistent bedtime window (e.g., 7:30-8:30 PM). The last catnap helps bridge the gap from the afternoon nap to bedtime without baby becoming overtired.
When is bedtime for a 2 month old?
Bedtime at 2 months is becoming more consistent and typically falls between 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM. This is because circadian rhythms are developing.
- What's normal: Bedtime may still shift by 30-60 minutes from night to night, but it's becoming more predictable
- Follow wake windows: Put baby down for "bed" when they've been awake 75-90 minutes after the last nap
- Night period guideline: Keep the designated "night" period to 11-12 hours (e.g., 7:30 PM - 7:00 AM)
- Building a routine: A consistent bedtime routine (bath, feed, sleep sack, lullaby) signals "night" is coming
Progress! At 2 months, you can start working toward a consistent bedtime window. Most babies do well with 7:30-8:30 PM. By 3-4 months, bedtime will become even more predictable.
Developmental Milestones for a 2 Month Old
At 2 months (8-11 weeks), your baby is rapidly developing and becoming more interactive. Here are key milestones to watch for:
Social & Emotional
- • Social smiles in response to you
- • Beginning to coo and make vowel sounds
- • Enjoys looking at faces
- • May start to laugh (late 2 months)
Vision & Hearing
- • Tracks moving objects with eyes
- • Recognizes familiar faces
- • Focuses on objects 8-12 inches away
- • Turns toward sounds consistently
Motor Skills
- • Holds head up during tummy time (45 degrees)
- • Smoother arm and leg movements
- • Brings hands to mouth more often
- • May start to bat at objects
Communication
- • Coos and gurgles frequently
- • Different cries for different needs
- • Responds to your voice
- • Beginning to "talk back" with sounds
Note: All babies develop at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby's development, talk to your pediatrician. Milestones are guidelines, not strict rules.
Is there a 2 month old sleep regression?
There is no official "2 month sleep regression," but some parents notice sleep disruptions around 8-11 weeks due to:
- Developmental leaps: Increased social awareness and longer wake windows can affect sleep patterns
- Growth spurts: Around 8-9 weeks, increased feeding needs can disrupt sleep
- Circadian rhythm adjustments: As the internal clock develops, sleep patterns naturally shift
- Swaddle transition: If baby starts showing signs of rolling, you'll need to transition out of swaddle, which can disrupt sleep
How to cope: This is temporary! Stick to consistent routines, watch wake windows carefully, use calming techniques (white noise, sleep sack), and ask for help. Most disruptions improve within 1-2 weeks.
What activities can I do with my 2 month old?
At 2 months, wake windows are 60-90 minutes, so activities should still be simple but can be slightly longer and more interactive than at 1 month. Here are ideas:
Visual Stimulation
- • Show colorful toys and high-contrast images
- • Move objects for baby to track with eyes
- • Face-to-face interaction with exaggerated expressions
- • Look at simple board books together
Physical Development
- • Tummy time (3-5 minutes, multiple times/day)
- • Gentle bicycle legs exercise for gas
- • Encourage reaching for hanging toys
- • Skin-to-skin contact
Auditory Stimulation
- • Sing songs and lullabies
- • Talk to baby and wait for coos in response
- • Play different types of music
- • Use rattles and musical toys
Bonding & Calming
- • Baby massage with gentle strokes
- • Rocking and swaying to music
- • Babywearing during daily activities
- • Outdoor walks for fresh air
Important: At 2 months, a typical wake window might include: diaper change (5 min) + feed (20-30 min) + playtime (15-20 min) + wind-down for sleep (5-10 min). Watch for sleepy cues and don't push past 90 minutes awake.
What is a bedtime routine for a 2 month old?
At 2 months, a consistent bedtime routine is important for supporting developing circadian rhythms. Keep it simple (20-30 minutes) and calming.
Bath (Optional)
A warm bath can be calming. 2-3 times per week is sufficient for young babies.
Diaper Change & Pajamas
Fresh diaper and sleepwear. This signals the transition to sleep mode.
Dim Lights
Lower the lights to signal nighttime. This helps reinforce circadian rhythm development.
Sleep Sack or Swaddle
If baby hasn't shown signs of rolling, swaddling is still safe. Otherwise, transition to a sleep sack.
Feed
A full feed before bed. It's still okay if baby falls asleep while feeding at this age.
Lullaby or White Noise
Sing a soft lullaby, say a goodnight phrase, or turn on white noise. Keep it calm and consistent.
Place in Crib/Bassinet
On their back, in a safe sleep space. It's still okay to soothe them to sleep at this age.
Pro Tip: The goal at 2 months is consistency, not independence. Create a predictable sequence of calming events. Independent sleep skills can be worked on later (4-6 months).
Should I swaddle my 2 month old?
Swaddling may still be safe for 2 month olds who cannot yet roll over. However, watch carefully as rolling often begins around 8-12 weeks.
- Continue swaddling if baby enjoys it and shows no signs of rolling
- Swaddling helps prevent the startle reflex from waking baby
- STOP swaddling immediately at the first sign of rolling (rocking to side, attempting to roll during tummy time)
Safe Swaddling & Transition Guidelines
- • Stop swaddling at the first sign of rolling (typically 8-12 weeks)
- • Always place baby on their back to sleep when swaddled
- • Keep swaddle snug around arms but loose around hips
- • Don't overdress baby under the swaddle (risk of overheating)
- • Transition to a sleep sack with arms free when rolling begins
- • Never swaddle with a blanket in the crib
Transition tip: If your baby is approaching 10-12 weeks or showing early rolling signs, consider transitioning to a sleep sack proactively. Many babies adjust within 3-7 nights.
What do I do if my 2 month old needs the pacifier to sleep?
It's completely normal for 2 month olds to need a pacifier (or other soothing method) to fall asleep. Here's what to know:
- Pacifiers are safe and recommended: The AAP states pacifiers may reduce SIDS risk. It's okay to use one for sleep.
- You'll need to replace it at night: At 2 months, baby cannot find and replace the pacifier themselves. This means you may need to wake to reinsert it.
- It's not a "bad habit": At this age, responsive soothing is appropriate. You're not creating problems for the future.
- Alternatives: If pacifier wakeups are exhausting, you can try other soothing methods (rocking, white noise, sleep sack) or simply not use a pacifier
Bottom line: Do whatever helps you and your baby get the most sleep right now. You can address sleep associations later (around 4-6 months) if needed. For now, prioritize rest!
Can a 2 month old sleep through the night?
No, 2 month olds cannot and should not sleep through the night. Here's why:
- Nutritional needs: Babies need to eat every 2.5-3.5 hours for proper growth and development. Their stomachs are still small and cannot hold enough to go 8+ hours.
- Not developmentally ready: While circadian rhythms are developing, sleep regulation systems are still immature.
- Breastfeeding consideration: If breastfeeding, frequent night feeds help maintain milk supply.
What to Expect Instead
- • Most 2 month olds wake every 2.5-4 hours at night to feed
- • Some may have one longer stretch (4-5 hours), typically early in the night
- • Total night sleep: typically broken into 3-4 segments with feeding breaks
- • This is normal, healthy, and expected
When will it get better? Most babies don't sleep through the night until 4-6 months (some later). Around 3-4 months, you may see slightly longer stretches (5-6 hours). Be patient—this phase is temporary!
Why is my 2 month old fighting sleep?
There are several common reasons why 2 month olds resist sleep:
Overtired (Wake Window Too Long)
If baby has been awake longer than 75-90 minutes, they may be overtired. Overtired babies have a harder time settling. Watch the clock and sleep cues closely.
Overstimulated
Too much activity, noise, or bright lights can make it hard for baby to wind down. Create a calm, dark environment before naps and bedtime.
Discomfort (Gas, Reflux, Temperature)
Check if baby needs a diaper change, is too hot/cold, or has gas/reflux. Address physical discomfort first.
Developmental Leaps
Around 8-10 weeks, babies become more aware and engaged. This increased alertness can make settling harder temporarily.
Swaddle Transition
If you're transitioning out of the swaddle due to rolling, this can temporarily disrupt sleep as baby adjusts.
What helps: Keep wake windows appropriate (60-90 min), use calming techniques (white noise, sleep sack, rocking, shushing), ensure the sleep environment is dark and cool, and maintain consistent routines.
Why are my 2 month old naps suddenly short?
Short naps (30-45 minutes) are still very common at 2 months. Here's why:
- Sleep cycles are short: 2 month olds have 45-60 minute sleep cycles and cannot yet consistently connect cycles during naps
- Startle reflex: The Moro reflex can still wake baby (sleep sack or swaddle can help)
- Environmental factors: Noise, light, or temperature changes can wake baby
- Developmental changes: Increased alertness and awareness can affect nap consolidation
What You Can Do
- • Use a sleep sack or swaddle (if not rolling) to reduce startle reflex
- • Use white noise to mask environmental sounds
- • Keep the room dark (blackout curtains help)
- • Watch wake windows—aim for 60-90 minutes
- • Accept that short naps are still developmentally normal
Good news: Nap consolidation typically happens around 4-6 months. For now, short naps are normal. If baby seems content and well-rested despite short naps, they're getting what they need!
How do I handle early morning wakings with my 2 month old?
At 2 months, wake times are becoming more consistent, so you can start establishing a desired wake time:
- Define your "morning": Choose a consistent time to start the day (e.g., 7:00 AM). If baby wakes before this, treat it as a night waking (dark room, minimal interaction, feed and back to sleep if possible).
- Keep night period to 11-12 hours: If bedtime is 7:30 PM, morning should start around 7:00-7:30 AM. Adjust bedtime if needed.
- Expose to light at designated wake time: Open curtains, turn on lights, speak in a normal voice. This helps set circadian rhythms.
- Be consistent: It takes several weeks for circadian rhythms to solidify. Stick with your routine.
Progress note: At 2 months, you'll start seeing improvement! While wake times aren't perfectly consistent yet, they're becoming more predictable. Your consistent environmental cues are helping baby's circadian rhythm develop.
What are safe sleep guidelines for a 2 month old?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the following safe sleep practices for all infants under 12 months:
Critical Safe Sleep Rules
- Always place baby on their back for every sleep (naps and nighttime)
- Use a firm, flat sleep surface (crib, bassinet, or play yard that meets safety standards)
- Nothing in the crib except baby: no blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, bumpers, or positioners
- Room-share without bed-sharing for at least 6 months (ideally 12 months)
- Avoid overheating: Dress baby in light layers, keep room temperature comfortable (68-72°F)
- Offer a pacifier at sleep (after breastfeeding is established)
- No smoking around baby (before or after birth)
- Avoid sleep positioners, inclined sleepers, and car seats for routine sleep
Swaddling/Sleep sack note: Swaddling is safe for 2 month olds who cannot roll. Always place swaddled babies on their back. Stop swaddling at the first sign of rolling and transition to a sleep sack with arms free.
Learn more: Visit the AAP website or talk to your pediatrician for complete safe sleep guidance. Safe sleep practices significantly reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Should I start sleep training at 2 months old?
No, 2 months old is too young for formal sleep training.
At this age, your baby benefits from responsive care and support to fall asleep. They are not developmentally ready for independent sleep skills.
Here's what to focus on at 2 months instead of sleep training:
- Responsive caregiving: Meet your baby's needs promptly. You cannot spoil a 2 month old.
- Feed on demand: Every 2.5-3.5 hours around the clock.
- Safe sleep environment: Back to sleep, firm surface, nothing in crib.
- Consistent routines: Establish a simple bedtime routine to support circadian rhythm development.
- Watch wake windows and sleep cues: This helps prevent overtiredness.
- Use soothing tools: Sleep sack, white noise, rocking, pacifier—whatever helps baby sleep!
When can I sleep train? Most experts recommend waiting until at least 4-6 months. By that time, baby's sleep cycles have matured, circadian rhythms are established, and they may be ready for more independent sleep skills. Always consult your pediatrician before starting.
What is the difference between 2 months and 1 month sleep?
While 2 month olds are still very young, there are some notable differences compared to 1 month olds:
| Aspect | 1 Month (4-7 weeks) | 2 Months (8-11 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Wake Windows | 50-90 minutes | 60-90 minutes |
| Sleep Pattern | Very fragmented, circadian rhythm just beginning | Slightly more consolidated, circadian rhythm developing |
| Naps | 5-8 per day | 4-6 per day |
| Social Engagement | First social smiles emerging (6-7 weeks) | Consistent social smiles, cooing, increased interaction |
| Bedtime | 7:00-10:00 PM (highly variable) | 7:30-9:00 PM (more consistent) |
| Night Feeds | Every 2-3 hours | Every 2.5-4 hours (some longer stretches) |
| Day-Night Confusion | Common, especially at 4-5 weeks | Improving for most babies |
| Predictability | Very low; wake times vary significantly | Slightly improved; wake times within 15-30 min |
| Total Sleep (24hr) | 14-17 hours | 14-16 hours |
| Swaddling | Safe for all 1 month olds (no rolling yet) | Safe if not rolling; watch for signs to transition |
Bottom line: At 2 months, you'll notice gradual improvements in sleep predictability and consolidation. Your baby is becoming more social and engaged. While sleep is still challenging, you're moving in the right direction!
Related Sleep Schedules
1 Month Old Sleep Schedule
Wake windows, sample routines, and tips for 4-7 week old babies.
3 Month Old Sleep Schedule
Wake windows, nap transitions, and sleep foundations for 12-15 week old babies.
Newborn Sleep Schedule
Complete guide for 0-4 week old babies navigating the fourth trimester.
Next Nap Calculator
Calculate your baby's next nap time based on age-appropriate wake windows.
You're Doing Great!
At 2 months, you're starting to see progress! Your baby's circadian rhythms are developing, social smiles are here, and sleep is gradually becoming more predictable. Remember:
- Follow wake windows (60-90 min) instead of rigid clock times
- Consistency helps circadian rhythm development, even if things aren't perfect yet
- Night wakings are normal and healthy—your baby still needs to eat every 2.5-3.5 hours
- Responsive caregiving is not creating bad habits—it's meeting developmental needs
- Every baby is different, and you know yours best. Trust your instincts!
This phase is temporary. By 3-4 months, you'll see even more consolidation and predictability. For now, celebrate those beautiful smiles and the small wins. You've got this!