Rationale: The comfort, safety, and well being of each child are always of the utmost consideration.  Aim: To meet the needs of the child/ren that require quiet times or a sleep and to provide a suitable and safe sleep area for those that may need it.

Guidelines:· Caregiver/s encouraged to consult staff in regards to the sleeping needs of their child. Sleeping children are to be checked on every 5– 10 minutes or more frequently according to their individual needs and will be checked for warmth, breathing, and general well being. Staff will record the sleep times of each child and the checks made by staff during that time. The under 2’s sleep book is located in the bathroom.  The over 2’s sleep book is located in the main room.

Method for Under 2’s:

Caregiver/s consult staff on their child’s sleeping needs and staff will aim to follow these sleeping requirements and the individual child’s preference for sleeping. i.e. sleeping position, soft toy, or a cuddly.·All sleeping requirements and sleep times etc will be recorded on the centre’s sleeping records and also in the child’s individual progress book if they are under 2.

Children who are under two will be put to sleep on their side or back only and will not be put to bed with a bottle (legal requirement.) No child will have access to food or liquids while in bed. ·Breathing Monitors will be turned on in both the sleep room and main play room area whenever a child is in the sleep room.

Each child will be assigned a cot and bedding so that they become familiar with their individual sleeping area. Cots and beds will be cleaned and bedding will also be changed and washed weekly or earlier when needed.

Method for Over 2’s:

Children who require a sleep will be provided with a bed and their own bedding.  Bedding will be changed and cleaned each week or once dirty.  Beds will be placed toe to toe.  If child does not fall asleep within ½ hour they will be directed to play area however sleeping habits will be discussed with parents/whanau. Children who do not sleep during the day will still be required to rest for ½ hour on a pillow in the main play room.  Sleeping times will be recorded on centre charts. 

Reference: Early Childhood Regulations 46 Criteria 46 HS9