CatNaps caused by not enough awake time?

[CatherineM]

Hello;

In the past couple of days my 11 week old bub and serial catnapper of 45 mins for day sleps has started to self settle (yeah!).   I used to have to shush-pat her to sleep.   People told me that self settling was the key to longer naps.  Have not seen results of that yet..however I also wonder if I put her down when she shows tired signs i.e. after 1 hour if she is tired enough to nap but not sleep properly.   

Should I be watching the clock at this age and try to keep her up longer or follow the tired signs?

Thanks!  I live in hope of longer sleeps!

[Mom to M&M]

At 11 weeks, IMO short naps are more often caused by overtiredness. After 4 months is generally when that turns around and you need to start extending A times. Do you want to post your routine and we can have a look?