Safer sleep
Little Leaps follows current safer-sleep guidance to reduce the risk of SIDS, suffocation, overheating and sleep-related accidents. Sleep spaces are clean, clear and suitable for the child's age and stage, with a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that fits correctly.
Babies under 12 months are placed on their backs to sleep unless written medical advice from a healthcare professional says otherwise. Cots are kept clear of pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, nests, pods, sleep positioners, wedges and soft toys.
The sleep environment is monitored for comfort and overheating, ideally between 16°C and 20°C. Hats and outdoor clothing are removed before sleep, and bedding is adjusted to the room temperature and the child's needs.
Sleep bags, where used, must be correctly sized and meet current British Safety Standards. Weighted sleep bags, weighted blankets and restrictive sleep equipment are not used.
Parents can also read recognised guidance from The Lullaby Trust.
Sleep checks and individual routines
Sleeping children remain within sight or hearing of staff at all times and are checked regularly. Sleep checks monitor breathing, colour, temperature and general wellbeing, and are recorded in line with setting procedures.
For babies under two years, physical sleep checks take place at least every 10 minutes, or more frequently where needed. Individual sleep routines are discussed with parents, including usual sleep routines, comfort items, medical needs, settling methods and cultural preferences.
Little Leaps will not follow any sleep practice that conflicts with safer-sleep guidance unless supported by written medical advice.
Buggies, pushchairs and safer sleep spaces
Where a child falls asleep in a buggy or pushchair, the buggy is fully reclined where possible, brakes are applied, the child remains within sight and hearing, checks are carried out and recorded, and the child's airway, breathing, colour and temperature are monitored. Hats, coats and excessive coverings are removed or adjusted to prevent overheating.
A buggy or pushchair is not used as a child's main or routine sleep environment. Where practical and appropriate, sleeping children are transferred to a suitable firm, flat sleep space as soon as possible.
If a buggy or pushchair is needed temporarily while a child settles into the setting, this is agreed with parents, risk assessed and reviewed regularly with the setting manager.