This time of year can include lots of new starts and one of the most common questions I am asked is “How can I help my baby to sleep at nursery?” My 3 kids all went to the gorgeous Wivenhoe Park Day Nursery in Essex and even though I wasn’t a Baby and Child Sleep Consultant at the time, sleep was one of my biggest worries.
Helping your baby to sleep at nursery or childcare
It’s completely normal for even the best sleepers to experience a regression when they first start a new childcare setting. The new environment can be louder or lighter than they’re used to, making it tough to switch off. There is also so many exciting adventures to be had, there is often too much happening for them to settle to sleep. The good news is that most children settle into sleep at nursery. Some even sleep better than at home (which from personal experience is super frustrating!)
Here is my top tips to help your child with their new routine:
Working with Your Nursery or Childminder
The first step is to establish a strong line of communication with your child’s caregiver.
- Discuss nap routines: Talk to their key worker or childminder about your child’s usual nap routine. It’s crucial they get the opportunity to nap around the same time they would at home. They may not be able to follow it to the letter, but often they will try and make it as familiar as possible
- Check the sleep environment: If you can, check the sleep area for light and noise levels. If you’re concerned your child might struggle, you could suggest using a blackout blind or a white noise machine.
- Share how your child sleeps: Make sure the nursery or childminder understands your approach to sleep. If your child usually falls asleep independently, ensure they don’t introduce new “sleep props,” like rocking or patting them to sleep, to get them to settle. This consistency is key. It can also help to bring a sleeping bag or blanket from home, and for babies over 12 months, a soft toy/comforter (always following the Lullaby Trusts safer sleep advice.)
Easing the transition to help your baby to sleep at nursery
A smooth transition can make a world of difference for your child and supporting your baby to sleep at nursery or with a childminder.
- Start slowly: Ease your little one into their new routine gently. While they will likely have a settling-in schedule, it can be very helpful to shorten their days initially. Picking them up a bit earlier can help them adjust. This can also prevent overtiredness as they get used to the new routine.
- Bring familiar items: Pack familiar items from home. If your child has a favorite teddy or comforter (always following the Lullaby Trusts safer sleep advice) make sure it’s in their bag. These items are linked with sleep and can provide a sense of security. We recommend buying a spare just in case one gets lost—it’s a lifesaver! Packing their own sleeping bag is also a great idea, as they’ll be used to its feel and smell.
Managing bedtime on nursery days
When naps are short or non-existent at nursery, it’s important to adjust your home routine accordingly.
- Early bedtime : If your child misses their naps, an early bedtime is essential. An in-the-cot time of 6 PM is perfectly fine. This gives them the chance to catch up on missed sleep and process the excitement of their day. You may find they fall asleep on the way home (i.e. a danger nap). If this happens and you know your child struggles to go to sleep after this, take the time to have some focused 1:1 playtime with you before bed.
- Track and adjust: It’s a good idea to make a note of when your child wakes from their naps. This means you know how to time bedtime. It can be helpful to simply know that nursery nights might be tougher and to not put too much pressure on yourself or your child.
- Make time for play: They haven’t seen you all day and suddenly it is home and bedtime routine. Where possible try and carve just 10 minutes of play with them. This can make a huge difference with bedtime.
It is not just sleep
It isn’t just sleep that parents can be worried about.
Separation anxiety
For some children, this can be the first time they have been away from a parent. It can be useful for them to spend some time with a trusted friend or relative before they start, but also take a look at these:
- The goodbye routine: Try to make drop off as quick and smooth as possible. We may feel anxious and want the extra cuddle (or 5), however extending the goodbye can make it harder.
- Reassurance: Is there anything you can leave them with to help them feel secure. This might be a favourite blanket, cuddly toy.
- The role of the key worker: Talk to your key worker about how the nursery support anxious starters. There is ofte a parents network that you can tap into – I promise it can feel like your baby is the only one getting upset at drop off, they aren’t.
- Give them a call: Nursery’s and childminders are always happy to hear from you if you need some reassurance they are ok!
As well as nursery feeling a lot for our children, it can be a big step for us as well. Be kind to yourself and it is ok to shed a tear after that first drop off.
As with all parenting, remember that every child is unique, and it may take some time to find a rhythm that works for everyone and that includes helping your baby to sleep at nursery. The key is to be patient, stay up to date with your childcare provider and try and keep to routine as much as possible. With a little consistency and understanding, your baby will soon be settled, happy, and napping well.
If you need some help with your child’s sleep, book a free 15 minute call and find out more about how I can help everyone’s sleep.
