Kids Sleep Needs by Age Calculator
See how much sleep a child needs by age from the AAP/AASM guidelines, and a suggested bedtime for a chosen wake-up time.
How it works
Recommended hours from AAP/AASM age bands · Suggested bedtime = wake time − midpoint of the recommended range
The American Academy of Pediatrics endorses the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s age-based sleep recommendations, given as a range that includes naps for younger children. This tool matches the child’s age to the right band and, using the midpoint of the range, works backward from a chosen wake-up time to suggest a bedtime. Consistent sleep and wake times matter as much as the total, so treat the bedtime as an anchor rather than a rigid rule.
Worked example
An 8-year-old falls in the 6–12 year band: 9–12 hours, midpoint 10.5. To wake at 7:00 AM, bedtime is 7:00 − 10.5 hours = about 8:30 PM.
Frequently asked questions
Do these hours include naps?
Yes, for younger children the recommended range is total sleep across 24 hours, including daytime naps. School-age children and teens usually get it all at night.
My child sleeps a bit less than the range — is that a problem?
Occasional shortfalls are normal. Persistent sleep below the range is linked to attention, mood and health issues, so aim to stay within the band most nights and keep a consistent schedule.
How firm is the suggested bedtime?
It uses the midpoint of the range, so it is a reasonable middle target. If your child clearly needs more or less sleep, shift the bedtime toward the top or bottom of the recommended band.
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This is a general educational estimate, not medical advice. Every child grows, feeds and responds to medicine differently — for anything about your child’s health, growth, nutrition or medication, follow the guidance of your pediatrician.