1-2 Month Old Sleep: Emerging Patterns & Changing Sleep Needs

Welcome back to our infant sleep series! Your baby has now graduated from the newborn stage, and you may be wondering what sleep changes to expect during months 1-2. This period brings subtle but important shifts in sleep patterns in the 1-2 month old sleep cycle as your baby begins developing their circadian rhythm and slightly more predictable sleep-wake cycles.

Remember that this stage is still within the “4th trimester” which means your baby will still want to be cuddled and snuggled while sleeping and otherwise. No sleep training allowed, but establishing a sleep routine can help ease into better sleep periods over time.

If you missed our Newborn Sleep post, check it out here.

How Sleep Changes from Newborn to 1-2 Months

The transition from newborn to 1-2 months brings several developmental changes:

• Total sleep time: Still approximately 14-17 hours per 24-hour period, but distribution begins to shift
• Emerging day/night distinction: Some babies begin recognizing night versus day, with slightly longer sleep stretches at night
• Sleep cycle development: Sleep cycles become slightly more defined, typically 40-60 minutes in length
• Biological rhythm development: The beginnings of circadian rhythm emerge, influenced by daylight exposure and feeding patterns
• More alert periods: You’ll notice longer awake windows compared to the newborn stage

Normal Sleep Expectations for 1-2 Month Olds

During this age range, you might observe:

• Night sleep stretches: Some babies may begin one slightly longer stretch of 3-4 hours (though many won’t yet)
• Awake windows: Typically 45-60 minutes between naps (longer than newborn stage)
• Daily naps: Usually 4-5 naps, still relatively unscheduled, lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Sleep onset: May become slightly more predictable, with some babies showing readiness for an earlier bedtime (between 7-9pm)
• Drowsy but awake: Some babies may begin showing capability to fall asleep without being fully asleep when placed down

Signs Your 1-2 Month Old Needs More Sleep

Watch for these age-appropriate tired signals:

• Decreased activity and less interest in surroundings
• Brief eye rubbing or ear pulling
• Looking away from stimulation
• Reduced smiling and increased fussiness
• Yawning and slower movements

Is My 1-2 Month Old Sleeping Too Much?

As with newborns, most 1-2 month olds cannot sleep “too much” unless there are feeding or development concerns. However, contact your healthcare provider if:

• Baby regularly sleeps more than 17 hours daily and is difficult to wake for feedings
• Excessive sleepiness interferes with adequate daily feedings (8-10 feedings per 24 hours at this age)
• Baby seems lethargic rather than peacefully sleeping
• You notice significant changes in baseline alertness

Tracking Your 1-2 Month Old Sleep

Continuing to track sleep can be especially valuable at this age as patterns begin to emerge:

• Note when longer stretches occur (often after a particular evening feeding)
• Track awake windows to identify your baby’s optimal wake times
• Document which soothing techniques work best
• Look for emerging patterns in nap timing or length

Many parents notice the first hints of predictability during this period, even if it’s not yet consistent.

1-2 Month Old Sleep Support

Building on newborn practices, you can now introduce:

DO:

• Begin a simple bedtime routine: A brief 10-15 minute sequence such as dimming lights, changing diaper, feeding, swaddling (if still appropriate), and singing a short lullaby
• Practice “awake but drowsy”: Occasionally try placing baby down when drowsy but not fully asleep to begin developing self-soothing skills
• Expose to natural daylight: Morning light exposure helps develop circadian rhythm
• Respond consistently: Continue responsive caregiving while watching for self-regulation capabilities

AVOID:

• Over-stimulation before sleep: At this age, babies become more social but can easily get overstimulated
• Inconsistent sleep environments: Begin establishing consistent sleep locations when possible
• Ignoring early tired signs: Catching the first yawn is key—overtired 1-2 month olds can be significantly harder to settle
• Comparing to other babies: Development varies widely, especially regarding longer sleep stretches

The 6-Week Sleep “Regression”

Many parents notice sleep becoming more challenging around 6 weeks as babies experience:

• Increased awareness of surroundings
• The first cognitive growth spurt
• More sensitivity to environmental stimuli
• Possible early signs of gas pain or colic peaking

This regression is temporary! Maintain consistency and responsive care during this challenging phase.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your pediatric provider if:

• Your previously gaining baby starts sleeping through feedings and showing poor weight gain
• Baby seems excessively sleepy and difficult to wake even for feedings
• You notice pauses in breathing lasting longer than 20 seconds
• Sleep patterns suddenly change dramatically without explanation
• You have persistent concerns about your baby’s sleep
• Use these safe sleep products to put your mind at ease and sleep easier

Final Thoughts

The 1-2 month old sleep period represents an important transition as your baby begins developing sleep rhythms. While most babies this age still wake frequently at night, you may begin seeing the first hints of sleep organization and slightly longer stretches. These subtle changes lay important foundations for healthy sleep development in the coming months.

Remember that your goal isn’t perfect sleep—it’s supporting your baby’s natural development while maintaining your well-being. Small, consistent steps now build toward healthier sleep habits later.

Stay tuned for our next post covering months 2-3, when many babies begin consolidating night sleep and developing more predictable nap patterns!

For more tips, check out this post for sample schedules and another take on the 1-2 month old sleep pattern.

I have created a comprehensive 0-12 week Newborn Sleep guide for these challenging weeks. Check it out https://justaskjennp.com/product/newborn-sleep-blueprint/

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your pediatric healthcare provider regarding your specific situation and concerns.