How much sleep does a toddler need?

November 10, 12:01 PMHartford Early Childhood Parenting ExaminerVictoria Scott

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(AP Photo/My Retro Baby)

We all need a certain amount of sleep in order to feel good and be the best that we can be every day. Babies and toddlers are no exception.

While adults need and average of 8 hours of sleep a night, children typically need more in order to accommodate their growing brains and bodies.

Here are some general guidelines for how much sleep your child may need:

• 2 year olds need an average of between 11.5 and 15.5 hours of sleep a day. This includes nap time during the day.
• 3 year olds need an average of between 11 and 14 hours of sleep a day. This too includes nap time.
• 4 year olds need an average of between 10 and 13 hours of sleep a day. This may include nap time if your child is still napping.
• 5 year olds need an average of  between 10 and 12.5 hours a day. Again, this may include a nap if your child is still napping.

Remember though, that every child is different and that your child may need more or less sleep than another.

For more information on children's sleeping habits, click here.