I would like to know more about soft toys in the cot. I am updating a policy for a childcare centre. Your information sheet states children over 7 months can have a soft toy in a cot but your past education survey states they cannot until they are 12 months old. I just want to make sure our policy is correct as a lot of our older infants have small security soft toys.

Red Nose recommends withholding any soft toys or comforters for babies less than 7 months of age, as they may increase the risk of suffocation.
Keep soft toys out of the sleeping environment for babies under seven months of age because they may cover the nose and mouth and interfere with breathing.
The risk posed by suffocation by the presence of soft objects in the baby’s sleeping environment outweighs any benefit to the baby from a soft toy. It is therefore advised not place soft toys and other soft objects in the cot for babies under seven months of age.
Seven month old babies are more likely to explore objects in their sleeping environments than younger babies. Some babies over seven months of age may appreciate a small object such as a soft toy to provide comfort and connection (transitional object) during times of separation from their parent.
https://rednose.org.au/article/soft-toys-in-the-cot

However, it is important not to use a soft toy/comforter that is large &/or may cover baby’s face or with objects (like beads) attached to it which may become loose or products that have small batteries in them that a child may swallow or choke on.

Also, ensure there are no strings or cords that may wrap around baby’s neck, creating a risk for strangulation.

Red Nose also says:
Keep the cot free of large soft toys, pillows, bumpers, activity centres and anything else that could be ‘stacked’ to assist a young child/toddler to climb out of the cot.

https://rednose.org.au/article/can-my-baby-have-a-soft-toy

There may need to be consideration as to whether a Risk Assessment is appropriate.

Ensure your Sleep & Rest policy reflects this information if you decide to include use of soft toys &/or comforters for babies over 7 months.