06/02/2026
It can be confusing for parents when trying to decide to follow a clock based schedule or to go by wake windows. Many of the new apps and devices today follow wake windows and this is mainly so they can give a quick input to parents on average ranges for sleep based on baby’s age.
While it’s great to understand your little ones’ wake windows, it can become confusing for some parents to follow them as your day and baby’s sleep is constantly changing.
Why a clock based schedule ?
Around 4 months of age your little one’s sleep becomes more organized and they are ready to do those longer stretches of sleep for naps and night time. It is at this time that we recommend families look at a clock based schedule for babies.
The main reason for this is to provide that predictability to the baby’s body as well as to your own schedule. Our bodies naturally follow a 24 hour clock, which controls changes in the body that help us to sleep. Once babies are over 4 months they start to follow those patterns called circadian rhythms. If we put them to bed when their body is naturally ready for sleep, not only can it help them settle to sleep easier but they are also more likely to get that deep restorative sleep that makes them better rested throughout the day.
Following a clock based schedule also helps to sync baby’s internal clock. Their body will naturally start to know when sleep happens which again will make them more tired and they will then start to show those tired cues at predictable times.
Have more questions around schedule or wake windows ? Read more at the link in my stories or send me a message today to schedule a free discovery call.
