Sleep and Rest

Last year some changes to legislation in the Care and Education Services National law, meant changes to regulations around sleep and rest policies in Early Learning services. In response to this Catholic Education has been reviewing our policies around sleep and rest across all our ELCs and has revised our policy.

The revised policy document is available for you to view using this link.

As a service we are required under the legislation to provide for students sleep and rest needs throughout their day at preschool and to do so in consultation with children’s families. In reflecting on our current practice we are making a few changes to ensure we are compliant with updated policies. We are also keeping in mind that students sleep needs are different, and it is important we provide for these different needs.

• We have introduced a sleep log for parents to access. This records the students who slept each day and the period for which they slept. The sleep log is available for you to look at in the hallway space where class programs are displayed.
• We have a few students that regularly sleep during rest times at the ELC. We would encourage you to send in a linen sheet for your child and a small cushion if your child regularly sleeps during the day – so we can set up a mattress for them during rest time. The sheet will be sent home at the end of each week for washing.
• We will continue to include a rest time for all students each day as it is important students have some time for rest and relaxation during their day.
• Children who do not wish to sleep will have access to other quiet activities ie puzzles, looking at books, drawing.

Please feel free to chat to the teaching team who work in your child’s room, should you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s sleep and rest during their day at preschool.