Safe Sleep Tips For Parents

At Tops Day Nurseries your child’s safety and well-being are always our top priority. One of the most important aspects of care, especially for babies and young toddlers—is safe sleep. Creating a secure sleep environment not only protects children but also promotes healthy routines and peace of mind for parents.

Why Safe Sleep Matters

According to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, providers must ensure that “sleeping children are frequently checked and that all necessary steps are taken to keep them safe and well.” This guidance is built on strong evidence around reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promoting high standards of care in early years settings.

Whether your child is at nursery or home, safe sleep practices are essential to support their physical development and emotional security.

Our Approach to Safe Sleep in Nursery

We follow strict safe sleep procedures in line with the EYFS and guidance from the Lullaby Trust (Safer sleep information | The Lullaby Trust), including:

• Babies are always placed on their back to sleep – never on their front or side.
• Feet-to-foot position – babies are positioned with their feet at the bottom of the cot to prevent wriggling under blankets.
• Sleep spaces are clear – we avoid pillows, soft toys, bumpers, and loose bedding.
• Room temperature is monitored to keep it cool and comfortable (ideally between 16–20°C).
• Regular checks – sleeping children are physically checked every 10 minutes and recorded in line with our policies.

We also follow each child’s individual routine and work closely with families to meet their specific needs while maintaining safety.

Tips for Safe Sleep at Home

Families can follow similar steps to help ensure safe sleep at home:

1. Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
   This is the safest position and reduces the risk of SIDS.
2. Use a firm, flat mattress.
   Ensure it’s in good condition and fits snugly in the cot.
3. Keep the cot or crib clear.
   No toys, pillows, or loose bedding – use a baby sleeping bag or securely tucked-in blanket.
4. Avoid overheating.
   Dress your child in light layers and check their chest or neck (not hands or feet) to gauge warmth.
5. Let them sleep in the same room as you for the first 6 months.
   Evidence shows this can help reduce the risk of SIDS.
6. Create a calm bedtime routine.
   A consistent, peaceful wind-down helps children settle into restful sleep

How It Supports Their Development (EYFS Link)

Sleep supports every area of a child’s growth. Within the EYFS, rest and good health are part of the ‘Health and Self-Care’ early learning goal, which encourages children to begin recognising and managing their personal needs.

Good sleep:

• Enhances brain development
• Supports emotional regulation
• Builds memory and learning capacity
• Boosts immunity and physical growth

Working Together

We know that every child is unique. That’s why we build strong partnerships with parents to share sleep routines, preferences, and any health considerations. Our team is always happy to discuss how we can support your child’s safe sleep, both at nursery and at home.