I am running a family day care. I just have a question regarding the sleep regulation, Do children who sleep on stretcher beds in the same room where I position myself so I can view all children sleeping do I need to record the 10-minute sleep checks?

Hi there,

It is best pracice to provide constant supervision of sleeping babies. In many settings however, this may be unachievable whereby ADEQUATE supervision may be provide. Adequate supervision ensures that you are within sight and hearing distance of sleeping children and that you are still able to intervene promplty if required.
Designated timeframes should be in place for supervision, checking and inspection of babies, particularly those less than 24 months of age. 
A timeframe of 10 minute checks would be reasonable and is commonly the designated timeframe demonstrated in the majority of childcare service providers.  Remember, that you need to address the individual need of the child. This time frame may change according to that.

During this supervision and inspection, staff/carers should observe the following: 
 - the position of each child’s body in their cot/on their mattress; 
 - each child’s breathing rate. If a child is not breathing then the staff/carer will commence the service’s first aid plan for a non-breathing child; 
 - the arrangement of bed linen. If a child’s face is covered, the staff/carer will immediately uncover the child’s face; and 
 - the environment. Staff/carers will monitor the temperature, the security of each cot (for example, are the sides of the cot up and/or locked) and environment safety (for example, location of heaters or    hanging cords near cots)
 - Importantly, children who are unwell should be given the highest supervision priority which includes more frequent observations.
-  Make sure older children do not have access to other babies who are sleeping. 

ALWAYS ensure you document your checks as this helps to protect both yourself and your children.  Failure to provide adequate documentation when called for by your regulatory body will incure significant financial penalties.

Hi there,

It is best pracice to provide constant supervision of sleeping babies. In many settings however, this may be unachievable whereby ADEQUATE supervision may be provide. Adequate supervision ensures that you are within sight and hearing distance of sleeping children and that you are still able to intervene promplty if required.
Designated timeframes should be in place for supervision, checking and inspection of babies, particularly those less than 24 months of age. 
A timeframe of 10 minute checks would be reasonable and is commonly the designated timeframe demonstrated in the majority of childcare service providers.  Remember, that you need to address the individual need of the child. This time frame may change according to that.

During this supervision and inspection, staff/carers should observe the following: 
 - the position of each child’s body in their cot/on their mattress; 
 - each child’s breathing rate. If a child is not breathing then the staff/carer will commence the service’s first aid plan for a non-breathing child; 
 - the arrangement of bed linen. If a child’s face is covered, the staff/carer will immediately uncover the child’s face; and 
 - the environment. Staff/carers will monitor the temperature, the security of each cot (for example, are the sides of the cot up and/or locked) and environment safety (for example, location of heaters or    hanging cords near cots)
 - Importantly, children who are unwell should be given the highest supervision priority which includes more frequent observations.
-  Make sure older children do not have access to other babies who are sleeping. 

ALWAYS ensure you document your checks as this helps to protect both yourself and your children.  Failure to provide adequate documentation when called for by your regulatory body will incure significant financial penalties.