For many families, sleep can feel like a bit of a guessing game - especially when little ones go from catnaps in the car to bedtime battles at home. Whether you’re caring for a baby, toddler, or a preschooler, one thing’s for sure: sleep is important, but it’s not always easy.
At Aussie Kindies, we understand how unpredictable sleep can be in the early years. That’s why we create safe, calm, and comforting environments where children aged 0–5 can rest peacefully - and why we’re here to support you with practical tips for better sleep at home, too.
Because well-rested kids are happier, healthier, and ready to play, learn and grow.
How to Create a Safe and Soothing Sleep Space at Home
Sleep needs look different for every child - and for every age. Here’s how to support safe, consistent rest at home:
Babies (0–12 months):
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Back to sleep, always. Lay baby on their back in a cot or bassinet with a firm mattress and fitted sheet - no pillows, soft toys or quilts.
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Keep it cool and simple. A room temperature of 20–22°C is best. Use breathable layers or a TOG-rated sleep bag for warmth.
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Feet to foot. Position your baby’s feet near the bottom of the cot to reduce the risk of slipping under covers.
Toddlers (1–3 years):
- Involve them. Toddlers love making choices - let them pick their PJs or bedtime story to make the wind-down more enjoyable.
- Set a calm routine. Bath, story, cuddle - it doesn’t have to be complicated, just consistent.
- Use gentle sleep cues. A soft light, favourite comforter, or calming music can help settle little bodies and minds.
- Whether it’s a nap in the car after school pickup or on the verandah while you water the garden - toddlers often find rest in the rhythms of everyday life.
Preschoolers (3–5 years):
- Give them gentle choices. Structure helps, but preschoolers thrive on small choices too - “Do you want to brush teeth first, or put your PJs on?”
- Stick to regular bedtimes. Even on weekends, this helps with behaviour, focus, and overall mood.
- Unplug before bed. Switch off screens at least an hour before bedtime and wind down with quiet play instead.
Got a toddler and a kindy kid on completely different sleep schedules? You’re not alone. Try syncing just one part of the routine - like a shared bedtime story - to make it easier for everyone.
What Safe Sleep Looks Like at Aussie Kindies
At Aussie Kindies, rest time is more than a scheduled break - it’s a chance for children to feel calm, safe, and secure. Our educators are trained in national safe sleep guidelines and create a consistent, gentle environment where every child can relax.
Here’s how we support safe sleep in our centres:
- Babies sleep in their own individual cots, with five-minute sleep checks and full supervision in peaceful nursery rooms.
- Toddlers and preschoolers rest on low beds or comfy sleep mats in softly lit rooms, often with white noise or lullabies playing.
- We follow your routine. Families let us know what works at home - from sleep cues to comforters - and we incorporate those into each child’s sleep plan.
- Non-sleepers get quiet rest. Some children won’t nap, and that’s okay. We offer calm choices like puzzles, books or drawing to recharge gently.
- We’ll always keep you updated on how your child rested and anything we noticed - because you know them best, and we’re here to support that.
When children struggle to settle, our educators respond with patience and warmth - offering a cuddle, sitting nearby, or using soft words to help them feel secure. We always work closely with families to ensure rest time supports what’s happening at home, too.
Learn more about our safety-first approach at Aussie Kindies.
“Every child is different - and that’s perfectly okay. What matters most is feeling safe, supported, and rested.”
Sleep Routines Change - And That’s Normal
New siblings, dropping a nap, teething, starting child care - these can all disrupt even the most established sleep routine. And that’s totally normal.
At Aussie Kindies, our educators are here to help children through every sleep transition. If your baby is adjusting to cot sleep or your preschooler is suddenly resisting naps, we’ll support them gently and work with you to make things easier at home too.
Common Sleep Questions from Families
We encourage rest, but never force sleep. If a child doesn’t nap, they’re offered quiet play to help them recharge.
Yes - over time and with support. We follow your child’s cues and help them feel comfortable with cot sleep, gently and gradually.
Absolutely. Even if they don’t sleep, quiet time is a valuable break for growing minds and bodies.
We’re Here for You, Too
If sleep at your place is feeling a bit unpredictable, please know - you’re not alone. Whether it’s one rough night or a long-term challenge, our team is here to listen, offer ideas, and partner with you every step of the way.
At Aussie Kindies, we’re more than educators. We’re part of your village.
Find a Centre That Feels Like Home
With centres in suburbs like Cranbourne, Woy Woy, Blue Haven and Glen Innes, Aussie Kindies is proud to offer safe, supportive environments where every child feels nurtured - and every parent feels welcome.
Find your nearest Aussie Kindies Early Learning centre and book a tour today.