Safe Sleep Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2026)

Policy Statement

At Just Little Ones Childminding, we recognise the vital importance of sleep in supporting children’s physical health, emotional well-being, and overall development. We are committed to providing a safe, secure, and developmentally appropriate sleep environment, in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2026 requirements, NHS safer sleep guidance, and recommendations from The Lullaby Trust.

Sleep Environment

  • A dedicated, quiet, and calming sleep area will be provided to support restful sleep. 
  • The dedicated sleep area maybe our log cabin or living room in colder months.
  • The sleep area will be well-ventilated and maintained at a temperature between 16–20°C. 
  • All sleep equipment, including cots and mattresses, will be firm, flat, clean, and in good condition, and meet relevant British Safety Standards. 
  • Sleep spaces will be kept clear and free from hazards at all times. 

Sleep Spaces and Equipment (Under 2 Years)

  • Babies aged 12 months and under will only be placed to sleep in a cot, such as a cot, travel cot, or Moses basket. 
  • All children will sleep in their own separate sleep space on a firm, flat, waterproof mattress. 
  • Sleep spaces will contain only a firm, flat mattress and:
    • Lightweight bedding tucked in securely no higher than the shoulders, or 
    • A correctly fitted baby sleep bag (in line with manufacturer guidance). 
  • Where blankets are used, babies will be placed feet-to-foot at the bottom of the cot. 
  • Cots will be kept completely clear of pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, soft toys, sleep positioners, or loose items. 

Sleep Routines

  • Each child’s sleep routine will be agreed with parents and tailored to their individual needs and developmental stage. 
  • Calm, soothing activities (e.g. stories, quiet music, dim lighting) will support transitions to sleep. 
  • Consistency between home and the setting will be promoted to help children feel safe and secure. 

Age-Appropriate Sleep Schedules

  • Babies and younger children will follow individual sleep patterns, including multiple naps where needed. 
  • Older children will be offered quiet rest periods if they no longer sleep. 
  • Sleep routines will remain flexible to respond to children’s changing needs. 

Comfort Items

  • Babies’ sleep spaces will be kept completely clear. 
  • Comforters, soft toys, and blankets are only permitted for children over 12 months, where appropriate and safe. 
  • All comfort items will be checked regularly for safety and cleanliness. 

Safe Sleep Practices

We follow current NHS and The Lullaby Trust guidance:

  • Babies will be placed on their backs for every sleep, unless medically advised otherwise. 
  • Once a baby can roll independently, they may find their own position, but will always be placed on their back initially. 
  • A firm, flat, waterproof mattress will always be used. 
  • Babies’ heads will remain uncovered at all times. 
  • Babies will be positioned feet-to-foot when blankets are used. 
  • Appropriate sleep clothing will be used to avoid overheating. 
  • Children will not be allowed to sleep in car seats, bouncers, sofas, pushchairs or other unsuitable equipment. 

Supervision and Monitoring

  • Babies under 6 months will always sleep in the same room as a practitioner. 
  • All sleeping children will be within sight and hearing of staff at all times. A staff member will sit with them in our cabin if this is the chosen place for sleep.
  • For children over 6 months, a video and audio monitor may be used, ensuring children can still be clearly seen and heard. 
  • Sleeping children will be checked frequently (at least every 10–15 minutes or in line with risk assessment). 
  • Checks will include monitoring:
    • Breathing 
    • Position 
    • Temperature 
    • General well-being 
  • A child’s temperature will be checked by feeling the chest or back of the neck (not hands or feet)

Sleeping Whilst Travelling

  • Babies aged 12 months and under who fall asleep whilst travelling will be moved to a cot or suitable sleep space as soon as they return to the setting. 
  • Children over 12 months will, where possible, be transferred to a firm, flat sleep space upon return. 
  • Car seats and pushchairs will not be used as a main sleep space. 
  • Hats and outdoor clothing will be removed indoors to prevent overheating. 

Health and Well-being

  • Care will be taken to ensure children do not become too hot or too cold. 
  • Staff will use professional judgement during extreme temperatures. 
  • Sleep will only take place in safe, appropriate environments. 
  • Children will be supported to develop healthy sleep habits. 

Communication with Parents

  • Parents will be consulted about their child’s sleep routines and preferences. 
  • Information about sleep duration, patterns, and any concerns will be shared daily. 
  • Any changes in sleep behaviour will be discussed promptly. 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and SUDC Prevention

  • We follow current guidance to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDC). 
  • Staff maintain up-to-date knowledge of safer sleep practices. 
  • Any updates to national guidance will be implemented promptly. 

Documentation 

  • Any concerns or changes in sleep patterns will be documented and shared with parents. 

Alignment with EYFS 2026 Requirements

This policy reflects EYFS safeguarding and welfare requirements by:

  • Ensuring children are kept safe while sleeping through continuous supervision and frequent checks 
  • Following recognised safer sleep guidance from the NHS and The Lullaby Trust 
  • Providing individualised care routines 
  • Promoting children’s health, safety, and well-being at all times 

Review and Monitoring

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if guidance changes. 
  • Feedback from parents and reflective practice will inform improvements. 

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: April 2026
Review Date: April 2027