Prioritising Safety: A Guide to Ensuring Safer Sleep for Children

Introduction

At Dragon Flies Nursery, we believe that promoting a child’s learning, development, and overall well-being extends beyond the waking hours. Our commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment doesn’t end when the children go to sleep. Safer sleeping practices are an integral part of our daily routines, guided by the principles outlined by the Lullaby Trust. In this blog post, we’ll delve into our approach to safer sleep, highlighting key practices and the comprehensive sleep policy we’ve developed to ensure the well-being of every child under our care.

Our Safer Sleep Practices

1. Comprehensive Sleep Policy:

At Dragon Flies Nursery, we have a dedicated sleep policy that serves as a cornerstone for our safer sleep practices. Accessible to all practitioners, this policy outlines the expectations we set for safer sleeping and ensures that our team has a deep understanding of our commitment to sleep safety.

2. Proper Bedtime Routines:

Our experienced team understands the importance of putting children to sleep in a safe and conducive manner. We follow guidelines to create a serene sleeping environment, fostering a sense of security and comfort for each child.

3. Appropriate Sleep Attire:

To prevent overheating and reduce any potential risks, we take great care in dressing children appropriately for sleep. Our attention to detail extends to eliminating any items of clothing that may pose a risk during sleep, ensuring a safe and comfortable rest.

4. Constant Supervision:

While children are in the realm of dreams, our dedicated staff remains vigilant. They stay with the children in the room, conducting regular checks every 10 minutes to ensure their well-being and address any needs promptly.

5. Optimal Room Conditions:

We maintain a careful balance by regulating the room temperature to ensure it is at the correct level for a comfortable and safe sleep environment. This attention to detail contributes to a restful night’s sleep for each child.

6. Personalized Sleep Setups:

Each child at Dragon Flies Nursery has their own sleep bag and bedding, which are washed regularly. This personalized approach not only promotes hygiene but also ensures that each child has a familiar and comfortable sleeping space.

7. Regular Checks and Maintenance:

The safety of our sleeping equipment and bedding is paramount. We conduct regular checks to ensure they meet safety standards and are kept clean. This commitment reflects our dedication to providing a secure sleeping environment for every child.

8. Continuous Improvement:

Our sleep policy, rooted in the guidelines of the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA), undergoes regular reviews and adaptations to meet the specific needs of our nursery. We conduct annual reviews and immediate updates if the need arises, showcasing our commitment to staying current with the best practices in childcare.

Our commitment to excellence extends to regular health and safety checks and audits, with the valuable input of an external early years consultant. This collaboration provides us with a fresh perspective and allows us to reflect on continually and enhance our practices, ensuring that Dragon Flies Nursery remains a safe haven for the growth and development of every child in our care.

Conclusion:

Safer sleeping is not just a policy at Dragon Flies Nursery; it’s a commitment to the well-being of the children entrusted to us. By following comprehensive guidelines, conducting regular reviews, and embracing continuous improvement, we strive to create an environment where every child can enjoy a peaceful and secure rest, contributing to their overall happiness and development.