17 Month Old sleep

The sleep and development of a 17-month-old toddler are marked by significant growth and learning milestones.

SLEEP NEEDS

At this age, toddlers typically need about 11 to 14 (ideally 13 to 14) hours of total sleep over 24 hours, including 10 to 12 hours at night and 2 to 2.5 hours during the day, often split over one to two naps. Their wake windows range from 3 to 6 hours depending on nap schedules.

1 NAP or 2 NAPS?

This sleep supports crucial brain development and physical growth as they become more mobile and verbal, with increased language skills and motor coordination. Your toddler may have already cut down to one nap, or in the awkward in-between phase of needing two naps on some days and one nap on some others. A personalized sleep schedule that adapts to the toddler’s changing needs is essential to help reduce overtiredness and improve sleep quality.

CLIMBING OUT OF THE CRIB?

Sleep sacks should still be used to prevent toddlers from climbing out of the crib, and it is also a good idea to lower the crib for safety reasons. I would generally advise against switching to an open mattress too early if your toddler is used to a crib, as their brains are not yet developed for executive functioning skills such as impulse control. If your toddler is already using a Montessori style floor bed, however, there are other mindful ways for you to establish healthy boundaries - and sleep training can be much more nuanced.

Consistent sleep routines at this stage not only support healthy development but also help manage mood and behavior in toddlers.

See Month-by-Month recommended sleep needs including Total Sleep Time, Total Daytime Sleep, Wake Windows, and Nap Needs here: