How much sleep does a 3-year-old need?

A 3-year-old usually needs between 10 and 13 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, including naps. Some children still take a daily nap, while others begin reducing or dropping it. A child who naps may sleep slightly less at night, while one who no longer naps may need an earlier bedtime. Many 3-year-olds do well with around 10 to 12 hours overnight. Watch your child's behavior rather than focusing only on the clock. Irritability, emotional outbursts, evening hyperactivity and difficulty waking can all suggest insufficient sleep. A calming and predictable routine can help, such as bathing, brushing teeth, reading and going to bed at the same time each evening. Keep screens out of the bedtime routine.