5 Tips for Optimizing Sleep at DayCare

Becka Payne, a Pediatric Sleep Specialist and a former daycare owner and operator, emphasizes the significance of quality naps for children, especially when they are away from home. Here are her top 5 tips for better sleep at daycare:

1. Effective Communication with your Caregiver

Inform your childcare provider about your sleep training approach at home. Consistency among all caregivers will make it easier for your child to fall asleep without resistance during naptime.

2. Crying is ok

Let the caregiver know that you are ok with some crying (protesting) while your child falls asleep. Give them a timeframe and let them know how you want them to intervene and/or provide comfort.

3. Discuss sleep props (sleep associations)

Explain to the caregiver that your child is learning to sleep independently and that sleep props should be eliminated. Most daycare providers should be willing to accommodate this request for the sake of a happy, sleeping child.

4. Maintain consistency

If possible, request that your child is placed in the same crib each time, preferably in a dark room (see image below: 6+ for naptime is recommended) dedicated to sleep and away from the play area. Emphasize that the crib should be associated solely with sleep and not used for playtime.

5. Create a familiar sleep environment

Supply an additional sleep sack and a white noise machine, ensuring that the sleep space resembles their room at home. For children aged 12 months and older, a small blanket or comforting item can also be beneficial.

Bonus Tip! Follow an Eat-Play-Sleep Routine

Ask the daycare provider to adopt an Eat-Play-Sleep schedule to prevent your child from becoming drowsy during bottle feeds. This routine helps consolidate feeds, ensuring your child receives a full feed each time instead of just a snack. It also helps break the association between eating and sleeping, treating them as separate events.

While making suggestions to a childcare provider can feel like you’re imposing, remember that advocating for your child's sleep needs is essential for their well-being. By implementing these suggestions, you can create a conducive sleep environment that mirrors your home, promoting more relaxed and predictable naps for your child at daycare.