Here at Whitecross, many children in our caterpillar room have a nap during the day.  We are committed to following the safer-sleep guidance issued by the government in conjunction with the lullaby trust.  Whilst it is rare for a child to sleep in the butterflies' room, we follow the same practice with all of our children. 

Why safer sleep is important

It is important to provide babies and children with a safer sleep environment to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in babies up to 12 months of age, and sudden unexpected death in childhood (SUDC) in children aged over 12 months.

Providing a safer sleep space for babies and children under two years of age

Babies and children must be placed down to sleep safely. For children under 2 years old the following requirements apply:

• children must be placed down on their back in their own separate sleep-space, on a clear, flat, firm surface such as a cot, bed or suitable mattress on the floor
• babies aged 12 months and under must only be placed to sleep in a cot – this includes carrycots, moses baskets and travel cots (you may find it useful to check whether products meet the British Standards listed below)
• sleep spaces must only contain a firm, flat, waterproof mattress and lightweight bedding which is firmly tucked in around the child no higher than their shoulders to prevent head covering – alternatively, a well-fitted baby sleep bag may be used (check the manufacturer's recommendations before using a baby sleep bag)
• where blankets are used, the child should be placed feet-to-foot at the bottom of the cot, with blankets tucked in
• cots must not contain extra items such as toys, pillows, loose bedding, bumpers, wedges or straps
• children should not get too hot or cold – the recommended room temperature for babies (those aged 12 months and under) is 16 – 20˚C.
• children’s heads must not be covered
• babies under six months of age must always have an adult with them in the same room for every sleep - all children must be frequently checked when they are sleeping
• children must always be within sight and hearing of staff when sleeping

Whilst the children who attend Whitecross two years and over, we are mindful of the guidance above.

Sleeping children are monitored individually from the time they fall asleep every ten minutes.  Sleep trackers are recorded and shared with parents daily on Tapestry.