Why Sleep Matters: Understanding Children’s Sleep Needs from Birth to Five

Sleep is one of the most important building blocks for a child’s health, growth and development. Just like nutritious food, active play and loving relationships, quality sleep helps children thrive during the early years.

From birth to five years of age, children’s brains and bodies are developing at an incredible rate. Sleep gives them the time they need to rest, recover and process everything they have experienced throughout the day.

At Tillys Play & Development Centres, we understand that every child has different sleep needs. We work closely with families to provide safe, restful sleep environments that support each child’s individual routine and wellbeing.

Why Is Sleep So Important?

When children sleep, their bodies and brains are hard at work. During sleep, children:

• Support healthy brain development and memory
• Consolidate new learning and experiences
• Release hormones that promote growth and physical development
• Strengthen their immune system
• Restore energy for play and learning
• Regulate emotions and behaviour

Children who consistently get enough sleep are often better able to concentrate, manage their emotions, engage in play and enjoy learning experiences.

How Much Sleep Does My Child Need?

Every child is unique, but the Australian Government and health experts provide general recommendations for healthy sleep.

Birth to 3 Months

Young babies typically need 14–17 hours of sleep across a 24-hour period. Sleep is spread across both day and night, with frequent waking for feeding.

4 to 11 Months

Babies generally require 12–16 hours of sleep, including regular daytime naps. As they grow, many begin developing more predictable sleep patterns.

1 to 2 Years

Toddlers usually need 11–14 hours of sleep in 24 hours, including one or two daytime naps. Sleep remains essential for supporting rapid physical and brain development.

3 to 5 Years

Preschool children typically require 10–13 hours of sleep each day. While some children continue to nap, others may no longer need daytime sleep but still benefit from quiet rest periods.

It’s important to remember that these are general guidelines. Some children naturally need a little more or a little less sleep than others.

Signs Your Child May Need More Sleep

Children don’t always tell us they’re tired. Instead, they may:

• Become irritable or emotional
• Have difficulty concentrating
• Be less interested in play
• Struggle with self-regulation
• Become clumsy or accident-prone
• Find it difficult to wake in the morning

Recognising these signs can help families adjust routines to better support their child’s sleep needs.

How Tillys Supports Healthy Sleep

At Tillys, we recognise that sleep is an individual need and work closely with families to maintain routines that support each child’s wellbeing.

Our educators:

• Follow each family’s sleep preferences and routines where appropriate
• Create calm, quiet and comfortable sleep environments
• Respond sensitively to children’s individual settling needs
• Monitor sleeping children in line with safe sleep practices
• Support children who no longer sleep with quiet, restful experiences

We understand that quality rest looks different for every child, and we respect each family’s approach while ensuring children’s safety and wellbeing remain our highest priority.

Supporting Healthy Sleep at Home

Healthy sleep habits often begin with consistent routines. Families can support their child’s sleep by:

• Establishing regular bedtimes and wake-up times
• Creating a calm bedtime routine
• Encouraging active play during the day
• Limiting stimulating activities before bedtime
• Providing a comfortable, quiet sleeping environment
• Responding consistently to bedtime routines

Children thrive on predictability, and consistent routines help them feel safe and ready for sleep.

Sleep and Screen Time

Research suggests that excessive screen time—particularly before bed—can make it more difficult for children to fall asleep. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with the body’s natural sleep hormones, while stimulating content may make it harder for children to wind down.

Instead of screens before bed, families might enjoy:

• Reading stories together
• Listening to calming music
• Quiet conversations about the day
• Gentle cuddles and relaxation
• Simple mindfulness or breathing activities

These calming routines help signal to children that it is time to rest.

Working Together to Support Wellbeing

Quality sleep supports every aspect of a child’s development—from learning and memory to emotional wellbeing, physical growth and overall health.

At Tillys, we value the partnership between families and educators in supporting healthy sleep habits. By working together and respecting each child’s individual needs, we can help children feel rested, happy and ready to make the most of every day.

Because a well-rested child is a child who is ready to learn, explore, play and thrive. 🌙💛