Toddler Sleep Schedule: 12 to 24 Months (Canada)

Last updated: November 2026. Figures checked against the official sources listed at the end of this page on October 2, 2026.

Short answer: Toddlers aged 1 to 2 years need 11 to 14 hours of good-quality sleep in 24 hours, including naps, with consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, under the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines. The Canadian Paediatric Society advises avoiding naps late in the day and winding down for about half an hour before bed.

Sleep by stage: Newborn (0–3 months) · Baby (4–12 months) · Toddler (12–24 months)

How much sleep toddlers need

The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines recommend 11 to 14 hours of good-quality sleep in 24 hours for toddlers aged 1 to 2, including naps, with consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. The same guidelines say toddlers should not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time and that screen time is not recommended under age 2.

Topic Guidance Source
Sleep in 24 hours 11–14 hours, including naps Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines
Bedtime and wake-up Consistent times Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines
Naps Avoid naps too late in the day CPS
Wind-down About half an hour of stories or quiet play before bed CPS
Portable bed rails Never for a child under 2 Health Canada

Naps in the second year

Nap needs vary a lot between toddlers. The CPS advice is to avoid naps that are too late in the day, because at this age they can affect night sleep. If bedtime keeps drifting later, look at when the last nap ends before you look at anything else.

Bedtime protests

The routine you built in the first year matters even more now, the CPS says. Help your toddler wind down for about half an hour before bed with stories or quiet activities, and be gentle but firm if they protest. Keep the bedroom quiet, cozy and dim. Soft, soothing music or white noise can be comforting but is not essential.

Comfort objects, and moving to a bed

Security items such as a blanket or stuffed animal are often important to toddlers (CPS). When you move from a crib to a bed, note Health Canada's rule: never place a child who is under two years old on a bed fitted with portable bed rails. For older toddlers, follow the bed rail maker's age and fit instructions.

When to talk to your health-care provider

The CPS says to mention it if your child regularly snores loudly, or seems to stop breathing for a short time and then gasps.

Frequently asked questions

Should my toddler still nap?

Many do, but needs vary. The CPS advises avoiding naps that are too late in the day, because they can affect night sleep.

When can my toddler use a bed rail?

Health Canada says never to place a child under two years old on a bed fitted with portable bed rails. After that, follow the bed rail maker's instructions.

Is a security blanket OK for a toddler?

The CPS says security items such as a blanket or stuffed animal are often important at this age.

Why does my toddler snore?

Talk to your health-care provider if your child regularly snores loudly or seems to stop breathing and then gasps (CPS).

Shop related categories

Related guides and tools

Sources

  1. Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years (0–4 years) (checked October 2, 2026)
  2. Canadian Paediatric Society (Caring for Kids): Healthy sleep for your baby and child (checked October 2, 2026)
  3. Health Canada: Is Your Child Safe? Sleep Time (checked October 2, 2026)

This page is general information, not medical advice. Follow your child's health-care provider and the product manufacturer's instructions.