2 March 2026

At Scallywags Nursery, we know that sleep can feel like a big topic for families — especially with babies and young children. Some little ones drift off easily, others need a little more reassurance, and many are somewhere in between. However, your child sleeps at home, you can feel confident that when they rest with us, their safety and comfort always come first.

Why Safe Sleep Matters

Sleep plays a vital role in children’s growth, brain development, mood regulation and overall wellbeing. A well-rested child is more settled, more engaged, and better able to enjoy their day of learning and play.

But most importantly, sleep must be safe.

That’s why we follow clear, carefully designed procedures to ensure every child rests in a secure and comfortable environment.

𝗔 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝗦𝗹𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

We make sure that:

• Babies are placed on their backs to sleep in cots.
• The youngest babies sleep in cots with their own designated sheets.
• Sleep mats are cleaned and antibacterial-sanitised after every use.
• Warm jumpers, coats and shoes are removed before sleep.
• Baby cot sheets are stored in individual bags to maintain hygiene.
• Rooms are tidy and free from clutter.

Before any child is laid down, staff complete a risk assessment of the sleep area to ensure everything is safe and suitable.

𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸𝘀

Your child is never left alone while sleeping.

Our team:

• Conducts and records 10-minute sleep checks for every child.
• Remains in the room always.
• Is fully trained in Paediatric First Aid.
• Receives safer sleep training during induction and annually thereafter.

We follow the ABCDE guidance for safer sleep:

• Alone
• Back
• Check
• Danger
• Environment

For further guidance, we recommend visiting the The Lullaby Trust, a leading authority on safer sleep advice for babies and young children.

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁, 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲 & 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀

We understand that sleep is personal.

Some children need a pat, some like quiet reassurance, and others settle independently. We work closely with families to follow each child’s individual routine as closely as possible.

Comforters are given in line with parental wishes, and we would never make changes without full consultation with parents and the nursery manager.

For children who don’t sleep, we offer a gentle rest period followed by calm, quiet activities so everyone’s needs are respected.

𝗛𝘆𝗴𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗲 & 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀

If a child is unwell, has sickness, head lice or a contagious illness, bedding is washed immediately. Staff are responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness in their rooms and sleep areas.

Nap time is also used productively for paperwork and preparation — while maintaining constant supervision of sleeping children.

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿

Safe sleep is a partnership between nursery and home. If your child’s sleep routine changes, or you have questions about our procedures, please talk to us. We’re always happy to offer reassurance and guidance.

At Scallywags, providing a nurturing, secure environment doesn’t stop at playtime — it continues right through to rest time.

Because every child deserves to feel safe, settled and supported… even in their dreams. 🌙

Safer Sleep Blog written by Demi Eastment