Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

At what age do most infants start to develop a consistent sleep schedule?

1. 3 months

2. 6 months

3. 9 months

4. 12 months

The correct answer is: 6 months

Infants typically begin to establish a more consistent sleep schedule around 6 months of age. At this stage of development, many infants are capable of sleeping for longer stretches at night and might start to show patterns in their sleep-wake cycles. By around this age, biological rhythms, including circadian rhythms, become more established, helping infants regulate their sleep more consistently. Developmental milestones, such as increased social interactions, cognitive developments, and physical growth, also contribute to changes in sleep patterns. Before 6 months, many infants experience a less predictable pattern of sleep, often waking frequently. By this age, with the influence of developmental factors as well as some environmental cues, such as routines introduced by caregivers, a more organized sleep schedule begins to emerge, allowing for longer sleep periods overnight and more naps during the day. This aligns with research on infant sleep patterns and the natural progression of sleep development, making 6 months a key age for a more stable sleep routine.