Leap is essential for your child’s overall development and health. But it can sometimes feel like an unpredictable business.
Sleep routines that were established over time may be altered overnight once your child starts childcare. One child might have trouble settling in to a new room or with new caregivers while another child could sleep so well at lunchtime that they cannot sleep during the night.
Parents can be alarmed by the effects of their children sleeping too little or too long at childcare. Families are often faced with sleepless nights or tired and emotional evenings. The good news is, children are very adaptable. There are many ways parents and caregivers can help their little ones establish a healthy sleep pattern in childcare.
Sleeping well with children
The Sleep Store states that, although the transition to childcare may disrupt your child’s sleeping patterns in the beginning, kids usually adapt faster than expected.
Your baby may have a hard time settling in to the new mattress, without Mummy’s usual massage, or your toddler may be too excited to take a nap. But they will adjust to their new sleep environment with some help from adults.
Visit the Education and Care Service before your child begins
It can be intimidating for your child to start at a new facility. A pre-visit will give them a chance get accustomed to the surroundings and feel comfortable with caregivers. Arrange a visit to coincide with your child’s naptime so they can get used to the new environment.
Give your child a comforting item
It is a good idea to include a sleep aid in their everyday belongings once they begin attending a childcare facility. Sleep aids are available in many sizes and shapes. Whether your child has a special sleep bag or a cuddly toy, comfort items will help him feel relaxed and create a positive association with sleeping in childcare.
Communication with educators
In a quality service, educators and caregivers are experienced professionals who know how to recognize fatigue, understand emotions and calm young children. You can assist educators by describing your child’s sleep routine, such as what time you usually nap them and what sleep cues they use at home, so they can replicate this routine as closely at care as possible.
Ask the staff to let you know how your baby is doing as time goes on. Also, ask how your toddler is getting along.
Accept the differences in childcare and at home
Sleep rooms can be more noisy and crowded than bedrooms. Your child may not be sleeping as much as you would like.
If you have concerns about your child’s sleep, it is best to discuss them with their caregiver. Together, you can find a solution. If your child’s afternoon nap is ruining his or her nighttime sleep, the educator can wake him/her after a pre-determined time.
Many parents have reported that their children sleep in a different way at home than at the daycare. They might nap during the day at care but not at home, but don’t worry. The Sleep Store advises that if your child is happy and content, you may need to relax a bit and accept that the routine will vary on days they are at childcare.