When do children typically develop a sleep pattern with longer sleep durations?

Children typically develop a consistent sleep pattern with longer durations by around 6 months of age. At this stage, infants usually begin to transition from irregular, fragmented sleep patterns to more organized sleep cycles. By 6 months, many infants can sleep for longer stretches at night, often ranging from 6 to 8 hours, and may take fewer naps during the day as their overall sleep requirements start to decrease.

The development of sleep patterns is influenced by the maturation of the circadian rhythms, which become more established during this period. This biological clock helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and reinforces the ability to consolidate sleep.

In contrast, by 2 months, infants typically experience shorter sleep cycles and often wake for feedings throughout the night. By 1 year, many children are still refining their sleep patterns but may have already established a routine. By 18 months, children are usually capable of sleeping through the night, but the significant transition towards longer sleep durations tends to stabilize around the 6-month mark.