Every young child needs enough sleep during the day and at night for healthy growth and development. When children are rested, they enjoy and benefit from learning opportunities throughout the day. Here at Tara’s Tiny Tots we want to know about each child’s sleeping routines and habits at home. Sharing information will help us make sure that the sleeping routine we follow is consistent with what our parents do at home. We also believe that this should be an important topic that you and childcare provider should discuss as well.
Here are some ways for you all to work together:
Let them know your child’s preferences. It helps your provider understand what works and doesn’t work at home. Here are some questions you can answer for your provider the would help them tremendously:
Are there special lullabies or words you child is used to hearing at bedtime?
Do you read a story before your child goes to sleep?
Bring special items that comfort your child to the childcare. If your child has a special blanket or another object that makes falling asleep easier, please bring it. Please label it with your child’s name and make sure your provider have access to it every day.
Keep them informed about changes in your child’s sleeping patterns. Of course your child’s sleeping patterns will change as he or she gets older. Coordinate changes with your provider, whether your child is making the big move from a crib to a bed or is no longer taking a morning nap.
Let them know if your child didn’t sleep well the night before. That way, they won’t be surprised if your child is grumpy or sleepy. Your provider can make changes in their schedule or activities if your child needs an earlier or longer nap. They will let you know when and for how long your child naps each day here so you can adapt your evening plans, too. Remember, this is a TEAM effort! The African proverb is true, “It takes a village to raise a child!”
Remember, put your baby to sleep on his or her back. This is a recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics and other national organizations to help prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS (also known as crib death). Check their Web sites or ask me for information about “Back to Sleep” and what else you can do to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Together, you and your provider can make sleeping and resting a pleasant experience for your child.