Little Acorns Childcare 2020 Ltd
Sleep and Safer Sleep Policy
(In line with EYFS Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements – September 2026 updates)
Policy Statement
At Little Acorns Childcare, the safety and wellbeing of all children is our highest priority. We recognise the importance of safe sleep practices in reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDC).
We are committed to following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) safeguarding and welfare requirements, NHS safer sleep guidance and recommendations from The Lullaby Trust to ensure all children are provided with a safe and appropriate sleeping environment.
This policy applies to all children attending the setting who may sleep or rest during the day.
Safe Sleep Procedures
Children Under 2 Years
All children under the age of 2 years will:
Be placed down to sleep safely on their back.
Sleep within their own separate sleep space.
Sleep on a firm, flat surface appropriate to their age and development.
Be supervised at all times whilst sleeping.
Remain within sight and hearing of staff.
Babies Aged 12 Months and Under
Babies aged 12 months and under will only sleep in:
A cot/Travel Cot
In line with EYFS September 2026 requirements, babies under 12 months will not sleep on sleep mats, soft furnishings, beanbags, sofas, buggies or directly on the nursery floor.
Babies under six months of age will always have an adult present in the same room whilst sleeping.
Sleep Environment
All sleep spaces will:
Contain only a firm, flat mattress.
Use fitted sheets or lightweight bedding appropriately tucked below shoulder height.
Keep children in a “feet to foot” position where blankets are used.
Allow the use of a well-fitted sleep bag where appropriate and in line with manufacturer guidance.
Be kept clear of pillows, cushions, cot bumpers, soft toys, nests, wedges, straps and loose blankets.
Maintain a safe and comfortable environment wherever reasonably possible.
The recommended room temperature for sleeping babies is between 16–20°C. During periods of extreme weather, staff will use professional judgement to maintain children’s comfort and safety through ventilation, hydration, shaded areas and adjusted routines.
Children’s heads must never be covered whilst sleeping.
Sleep Monitoring
Children sleeping within the setting will:
Be checked frequently by practitioners.
Remain within sight and hearing of staff at all times.
Have their breathing, comfort, temperature and position monitored regularly.
Be recorded appropriately in line with nursery procedures.
The frequency of checks will be based on:
The child’s age
Individual needs
Medical requirements
Room temperature
Length and depth of sleep
Always at least every 10 mins
Unexpected Sleep During Play
We understand that babies and young children may occasionally fall asleep unexpectedly outside of planned sleep routines, particularly during periods of illness, teething, developmental changes or extreme weather.
Where this occurs, staff will assess the situation immediately and, wherever possible, transition the child safely into an appropriate sleep space in line with this policy and EYFS safer sleep guidance.
Children under 12 months must always be moved into a cot should they fall asleep unexpectedly.
Buggies, Car Seats and Slings
Children will not routinely sleep in:
Car seats
Pushchairs
Buggies
Prams
Slings or carriers
All children must arrive at the setting awake and leave the setting awake at collection. This ensures children are safely transitioned into and out of our care and allows practitioners to be fully aware of each child's wellbeing on arrival and departure.
Comforters and dummies: Comforters may only be used for children aged over 12 months, while dummies may be used in accordance with parents’ wishes and the child’s individual care routine, with all items used safely and appropriately.
Staff Responsibilities
All practitioners are responsible for:
Following this policy at all times.
Completing safer sleep training and updates.
Following NHS safer sleep guidance.
Ensuring sleep spaces remain safe and uncluttered.
Reporting any concerns immediately to management.
Parent Partnership
We work closely with parents and carers to ensure sleep routines are consistent, safe and appropriate for each child’s individual needs.
Parents are encouraged to share:
Home sleep routines
Comfort measures
Medical information
Sleep preferences
Changes in sleep patterns
A copy of this policy is available to all families upon request.
Linked Guidance
This policy is based on:
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
NHS Safer Sleep Guidance
The Lullaby Trust Safer Sleep Recommendations
Policy Review Date: April 2027
Further information, plus video clips can be found at: www.lullabytrust.org.uk