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Safe Sleeping: The Benefits of Sleeping Bags and Preventing SIDS
Creative Childcare • August 28, 2017
Taking a glimpse of our little ones fall into a deep slumber. Their eyelids peacefully shut, oftentimes fluttering while they journey on an exciting trance. Watching them is like a vision of a paradisiacal prairie – like witnessing a breathtaking seascape. Seeing our babies enveloped in a profound sleep is like having a quick getaway — resembling the experience of being taken into a relaxing holiday like no other. There is a form of pure captivation and untainted relaxation that are present. As we stare to our babies’ innocence and tranquility, we take advantage of the moments that evoke two things: gratefulness and hope. We feel incredibly thankful to have been blessed with a perfect, astounding child that gives us a reason to live. A cherub that brings so much happiness into our lives. A gift who gives us the ability to dream, while strengthening our hope and faith for the future.
As parents, our definition of ultimate satisfaction and bliss is seeing our children happy, secure and in the pink of health. We make every effort to give them a comfortable life, a good education and a safe environment that they are worthy of. A loving home is where we nurture our kids and keep them protected. It is where we demonstrate love and where we instill values and virtues. This is their refuge where we create the foundation of their happiness and success.
Sadly, accidents — and worst, death — may happen within the confines of the home. A Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy or SUDI, SIDS or the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and other fatal sleep accidents are just some of the worst nightmares of parents.
According to Healthdirect : “In Australia in 2013, 117 babies died suddenly and unexpectedly, of those deaths, 54 were identified as SIDS. Despite these deaths, SIDS is rare and the risk of your baby dying from it is low. Most SIDS deaths happen during the first 3 months of a baby’s life.”
Despite the fact that the risk of a baby dying from SIDS is low, they said ‘risk’ is still present, and that we must do everything to ensure that we prevent the occurrence of SIDS and save our babies from this life-threatening event.
Here are some helpful safe sleeping tips that you could do to ensure your child’s safety during naptime or bedtime:
- Let them sleep in a cot or a crib with you, in a room, ideally from 6 months to 1 year of age. Do not let them sleep on a waterbed or a beanbag.
- Make sure that the mattress used on his cot is tight-fitting and firm. Avoid thick cot paddings. The barer your baby’s crib is, the better.
- The rates for SIDS among the babies of moms who smoked while pregnant, or after their babies are born are higher. Avoid smoking in your room that you share with your baby, or do not smoke at your baby’s room. Do not let anyone smoke near your baby either.
- Do not use excessive pillows, beddings and bumper pads, and do not leave stuffed toys in your baby’s cot on his sleep-time to avoid the risk of suffocation or strangulation.
- Dummies or pacifiers reduce the risk of SIDS. It is recommended that parents offer a dummy to their babies during their first year. Sucking on dummies may prevent the baby from falling into a deep sleep. Remember not to force a dummy to your baby if he/she is not interested in it or not yet ready for it.
- Make sure that you place your baby on his back while sleeping, and not on their sides or stomach. This prevents a possible airway obstruction. Back sleeping lowers the risk of SIDS. NICHD says that: “Compared with back sleeping, stomach sleeping carries between 1.7 and 12.9 times the risk of SIDS.” Stomach sleeping may also lead to your baby’s temperature getting to high.
- Breastfeeding lowers the risk of SIDS so it is best to breastfeed your baby, if you can.
- Avoid bedsharing. Sharing a bed with your baby or cosleeping may lead to accidental suffocation.
- Ensure that your baby does not get too hot or too cold. Do not overdress your baby. A very high or very low room temperature increases the risk of SIDS. Make sure that the room temperature is just about right, and that your little one is dressed comfortably.
- If your child gets chilly, do not use a blanket or a poorly fitted bedding to keep him warm. Swathe him in a receiving blanket. It is also advisable to use a sleeping bag instead, as blankets may hinder your tot’s breathing
Why Use Sleeping Bags?
Sleeping bags help babies and toddlers to settle well, especially when traveling. The use of sleeping bags is also strongly encouraged as sleeping bags have been proven to lower the risk of SIDS. Not only does it help in making your baby less fussy, but it is incredibly effective in maintaining your little one’s normal body temperature and provides the comfort that he needs for a calm and comfortable sleep, without the dangers of suffocation.
Planning for a safe sleeping arrangement can wondrously create a secure sleeping environment for our babies. By doing so, we lower the chances of sleep-related infant accidents and deaths. A good, safe and peaceful sleep is not only beneficial to the health and well-being of our child; it also gives us the serenity and peace of mind, as well as the feeling of fulfillment knowing that — albeit our imperfections — we are trying our best to provide our little ones with a happy life and safe environment that they deserve. That in itself is a marvelous accomplishment.
At Creative Childcare Hunter Street, we believe that curiosity and creativity are the building blocks of a child’s growth and development. By fostering an environment where young minds can explore, imagine, and create, we empower children to think outside the box and approach the world with wonder. Here are the ways we inspire curiosity and creativity every day: Inspiring Exploration Through Play Play is at the heart of our approach to learning. Whether indoors or outdoors, we provide opportunities for children to discover new ideas, experiment with materials, and engage their senses. From exploring nature in our garden to building imaginative worlds with blocks, we encourage children to follow their curiosity and lead their own learning adventures. Encouraging Questions and Discovery We nurture a culture of inquiry, where children feel confident asking questions and seeking answers. Our educators actively engage with children’s ideas, guiding them through hands-on activities and discussions that spark discovery. By turning questions into opportunities for exploration, we cultivate a love of learning that stays with them for life. Creative Arts and Expression Art is a powerful way for children to express themselves. At our centre, we provide a wide variety of creative materials—from paints and crayons to clay and recycled items—to inspire artistic exploration. Whether through painting, crafting, or storytelling, children develop their unique voices while honing their fine motor skills and creativity. Imaginative Role-Play and Storytelling Role-play and storytelling ignite children’s imaginations and help them make sense of the world around them. We create spaces for children to transform into chefs, explorers, or even astronauts. Through these imaginative scenarios, they practice problem-solving, communication, and collaboration while having endless fun. Hands-On STEM Activities Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) come alive at Creative Childcare through engaging, hands-on activities. From experimenting with simple science projects to building towers and exploring patterns, we integrate STEM concepts into play to develop critical thinking and creativity. These experiences help children see the exciting possibilities in the world around them. Nature-Based Learning The natural world is an endless source of curiosity. We encourage children to explore and connect with nature through gardening, nature walks, and outdoor play. By observing plants, insects, and seasonal changes, children develop a sense of wonder for the environment and learn valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of life. Celebrating Individuality Every child is unique, and we celebrate their individuality by tailoring activities to their interests and strengths. Whether a child loves music, construction, or storytelling, we provide opportunities for them to shine and share their passions. This personalised approach helps children feel valued and confident in their creative abilities. Collaborative Projects Working together on projects helps children learn the value of teamwork while sparking new ideas. From building large-scale art installations to solving puzzles as a group, collaborative activities teach children to share, listen, and innovate together. Supporting Risk-Taking and Resilience Creativity flourishes when children feel safe to take risks and try new things. We provide an environment where it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. This encourages children to experiment, persevere through challenges, and discover solutions on their own, building both creativity and resilience. Reflecting on Experiences Reflection is an important part of the creative process. We encourage children to talk about their projects, share their thoughts, and celebrate their achievements. This practice helps them build confidence in their ideas and appreciate the journey of learning and creating. At Creative Childcare Hunter Street, we are committed to nurturing the curiosity and creativity that make childhood so magical. By providing a supportive and inspiring environment, we help children discover their potential and equip them with the tools to approach the world with confidence, imagination, and joy. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
Creative Childcare Hunter Street Reconciliation. At Creative Childcare Hunter Street, reconciliation is more than a process; it’s a meaningful journey that we embrace together. By fostering respectful relationships and celebrating diversity, we aim to create a vibrant and inclusive environment for every child in our care. Here’s how our reconciliation initiatives are making a difference every day: Embracing Cultural Awareness Our journey begins with cultivating cultural awareness. Through storytelling, music, and art, we introduce children to diverse cultural heritages. These engaging sessions spark curiosity and encourage children to celebrate the richness of different traditions. By exploring these stories together, we nurture understanding and appreciation from an early age. Interactive Learning Experiences We believe hands-on experiences are key to understanding. Children at our centre participate in interactive activities, from traditional games and dances to creating art inspired by cultural motifs. These activities help children connect with cultural expressions in a meaningful way, fostering respect and joy in diversity. Building Relationships with Local Communities Strong connections with local communities are at the heart of our approach. We collaborate with community leaders, artists, and educators to enrich our programs. Guest speakers and community events provide opportunities for children to learn directly from cultural knowledge holders, fostering authentic relationships and shared experiences. Incorporating Diverse Perspectives Our curriculum is designed to reflect a variety of perspectives across all learning areas. By integrating cultural stories, traditions, and environmental knowledge into everyday activities, we help children develop a holistic understanding of the world. This approach creates a sense of belonging and deep respect for all cultures. Celebrating Cultural Days and Events Throughout the year, we honour significant cultural days and events. From themed weeks to community festivals, these celebrations immerse children in meaningful activities that highlight the importance of cultural milestones. Through discussions, creative projects, and participation in these events, children develop a deep appreciation for different heritages. Promoting Respectful Relationships Reconciliation is about building bridges of understanding. We create an environment where children learn to value diverse perspectives and practice empathy. Through role-playing, collaborative activities, and guided discussions, we teach the importance of kindness, understanding, and respect for all individuals. Encouraging Critical Thinking At our centre, we encourage children to think critically about cultural differences and historical contexts. Open discussions and age-appropriate activities invite them to ask questions and share their thoughts. This approach not only builds cognitive skills but also fosters compassion and empathy. Nurturing Environmental Awareness A connection to the environment is a vital part of cultural understanding. Through nature-based activities, gardening, and exploring local environments, children learn about sustainable practices and the importance of caring for the land. These activities instill respect for the planet and its cultural significance. Creating Safe Spaces for Sharing We understand the value of open dialogue. Our centre provides safe spaces where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. These conversations empower children to express themselves and learn from one another, fostering confidence and mutual respect. Continuous Reflection and Growth Reconciliation is an ongoing commitment. At Creative Childcare, we regularly reflect on our practices, seek feedback from families and communities, and adapt our initiatives to remain impactful. This dedication ensures we continue to create an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
Childcare Nutrition: Smart Snacking & Healthy Bites for Growing Kids At the heart of every child’s day is the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive. At our three centres, we see nutrition as more than just food on a plate; it’s our way of inspiring healthy habits, delighting curious taste buds, and nurturing growing bodies and minds. Here’s how we incorporate smart snacking and wholesome nourishment into our daily care. Wholesome Snacking Habits Snack time is a chance to fuel children’s bodies with delicious and nutritious food choices. We offer a variety of fresh fruits, crunchy vegetables, and whole-grain delights to help children develop a taste for foods that support their growth and energy needs. These small but meaningful choices lay the foundation for a balanced and healthy diet. Nutrient-Rich Finger Foods Healthy eating at our centres is always fun and engaging! We provide nutrient-packed finger foods, like colourful veggie sticks, cheese cubes, and whole-grain crackers, which are perfect for little hands. These bites encourage independence while delivering the essential vitamins and minerals children need to thrive. Hydration for Happy Bodies Staying hydrated is just as important as eating well. That’s why water takes centre stage in our daily routine. We encourage children to prioritise this healthy habit by taking regular sips throughout the day, supporting their focus, energy, and overall well-being. Balanced Meal Time Adventures Mealtime is more than just a break—it can be a whole new adventure for children! We thoughtfully prepare meals with a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to provide the energy and nutrients children need to learn, play, and grow. Every bite is part of their journey toward a healthier future. Creative Presentation for Appetising Appeal Healthy foods are as exciting as they are nourishing at our centre. We create a rainbow of fruits, fun-shaped sandwiches, and vibrant veggie platters to make mealtime an engaging and joyful experience. When food looks as good as it tastes, little ones are eager to dig in and discover new flavours. Mindful Eating Practices We teach children to slow down and connect with their food. By encouraging them to savour each bite and listen to their hunger and fullness cues, we help them foster a positive relationship with food that can last a lifetime. Allergen Awareness Creating a safe and inclusive environment is a top priority for us. We are attentive to food allergies and dietary restrictions, ensuring every child feels included and cared for during meals. This commitment to safety helps all children enjoy their food with confidence and joy. Educating Young Palates Mealtime is also a moment of discovery at our centre. Through fun activities and simple lessons, we teach children about different food groups, the benefits of healthy eating, and how food fuels their amazing bodies. These early lessons empower them to make thoughtful choices as they grow. Snack-Time Variety We believe variety is essential for growing palates! By offering an array of flavors and textures, we expand children’s taste preferences and help them develop an appreciation for different foods. Snack time is an exciting adventure full of new discoveries. Collaboration with Families We know that a child’s nutrition journey is most successful when home and childcare work together. That’s why we maintain open communication with families to ensure consistency and understanding of dietary preferences or restrictions. This partnership creates a seamless and supportive approach to healthy eating. At Creative Childcare, nutrition is about more than feeding young bodies; it’s about sparking joy, building confidence, and creating a foundation for lifelong healthy habits. Through thoughtful choices, creative presentations, and a nurturing environment, we empower children to thrive—one bite at a time. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
