Relaxation and Sleep
Policy
At one World for Children during relaxation and sleep times we will follow the current childcare practices recommended by the SIDS and KIDS safe sleeping program to create a safe sleeping environment.
We will ensure the child feels safe and secure in the childcare environment and consult with the families about their child’s individual needs at sleep/relaxation time. When a family’s beliefs and practices are in conflict with SIDS & KIDS we will not endorse an alternative practice unless we are provided with written advice from a medical practitioner.
Procedure
- On orientation staff will inform parents or caregivers of the current recommended SIDS and KIDS safe sleeping recommendations and One World sleeping/relaxation policy and procedure
- Sleep/Relaxation times are an essential part of the day for all of the children in the centre. Some of the children use this time to sleep, others to play quietly in a peaceful and relaxing environment.
- Your child's sleep routine at the Centre is developed with your help, to compliment your home routine. Any requests you may have, such as limiting sleep times or additional relaxation times, will be actively, and happily, followed through by our staff. This will be documented on your child’s file.
- Your child is welcome to bring along any security items, such as a dummy, bottle, blanket or special toy, and during the cooler months we request that you bring along a small blanket for your child's relaxation time. All other bedding linen is supplied by One World.
- At One World your child will never be forced to sleep, but encouraged to either relax by reading or to play quietly on a mattress. Our playrooms and indoor/outdoor program is always set up with quiet activities for children who do not require a formal sleep or relaxation time.
- Infants individual sleep pattern at home is used for the basis of establishing a sleep routine at our Centre. On enrolment, our staff will enquire on your child's sleep routine, and discuss with you how your child's individual needs can be accommodated within the playroom's routine.
- Babies under 12 months old will be placed on their back only to sleep unless directed in writing from a medical practitioner.
- Babies under 12 month old will be placed at the bottom of the cot to sleep with light bedding or a safe infant sleep bag with fitted arm and neck holes.
- Should a baby under 12 month of age move and fall asleep on their side or stomach they will be placed onto their back by a staff member (once they are in a deep sleep).
- A safe and strong cot will be provided that meets the Australian standards 2172 for cots.
- The mattress will be firm, clean and well fitted.
- Pillows, quilts or soft toys will not be used in a cot.
- Blankets should be firmly tucked in.
- Babies should sleep with their face uncovered.
- To wrap a baby we will use only cotton or muslin (to be supplied by yourself)
- Staff will create a safe, peaceful and relaxing environment at sleep/relaxation time by lowering the lights and playing soothing music.
- Staff will spend special time helping each of the children to bed whilst encouraging independence in dressing and undressing (age appropriate)
- Each infant/child’s nappy is checked prior to sleep time and changed if necessary.
- Excess clothing is removed to ovoid overheating and safety.
- Staff spend time settling each infant and child so that going to sleep is a pleasant experience.
- All children who are sleeping are supervised at all times.
- Staff will maintain the sleep equipment through a daily check list.
- Management will research and keep up to date records from the SIDS and KIDS organisation.
The centre policy and procedure will be reviewed when any new information becomes available.
Resource
SIDS AND KIDS Safe Sleeping Child Care Kit
SIDS and KIDS Safe Sleeping Policy
Putting Children First – safe sleeping in child care June 2010
One World for Children Parents Information Handbook
Source
SIDS AND KIDS 1300 308 307
One World for Children Acknowledgement of Country: Here is the land; Here is the sky; Here are my people and here am I. We give thanks to future, present and past; Ancestors and Elders and the connection that lasts. We acknowledge the Wathaurong people on whose land we learn and play; We promise to look after it every day. ©
