Daycare Safe Sleep Guide 2026: SIDS Prevention Standards
Complete guide to safe sleep at daycare in 2026. ABC sleep rules, SIDS prevention, what quality programs do, and questions to ask about infant sleep.
Safe sleep practices at daycare are critical for infant safety. Quality programs follow AAP guidelines to reduce SIDS risk. Understanding these standards helps you ensure your baby sleeps safely in care.
Table of Contents
ABCs of Safe Sleep
The ABCs
| Letter | Meaning | Why | |--------|---------|-----| | A - Alone | No blankets, toys, bumpers | Prevent suffocation | | B - Back | Always on back | Reduces SIDS risk | | C - Crib | Firm, flat surface | Safe sleep environment |
Every Sleep, Every Time
| Rule | Details | |------|---------| | Back to sleep | Even for naps | | Firm surface | No soft mattresses | | Nothing in crib | No blankets, pillows, toys | | Own sleep space | Not in swing, car seat, bouncer | | Comfortable temperature | Not overheated |
What Quality Programs Do
Sleep Environment
| Element | Standard | |---------|----------| | Cribs | CPSC-approved, firm mattress | | Sheets | Fitted only, tight | | Temperature | 68-72°F | | Lighting | Dim but visible | | Supervision | Regular checks |
Staff Training
| Training | Content | |----------|---------| | Safe sleep | ABCs, SIDS prevention | | Sleep checks | How often, what to look for | | Response | If concern arises | | Documentation | Recording sleep times |
Written Policies
Quality programs have policies on:
- Back sleeping for all infants
- Crib-only sleep
- Sleep check frequency
- Communication with parents
- Staff training requirements
Questions to Ask
About Sleep Practices
- How do you position babies for sleep?
- What is your sleep check schedule?
- What is in the crib with babies?
- Where do babies sleep (cribs only)?
- What if my baby only sleeps on tummy at home?
About Training
- What safe sleep training do staff receive?
- How often is training updated?
- What is your SIDS prevention policy?
- May I see your written sleep policy?
About Communication
- How will you tell me about sleep?
- What if you have concerns about my baby's sleep?
- How do you handle different home practices?
Red Flags
Concerning Practices
| Red Flag | Why It's Dangerous | |----------|-------------------| | Babies in swings to sleep | Positional suffocation risk | | Blankets in cribs | Suffocation hazard | | Tummy sleeping | Increased SIDS risk | | Bumpers in cribs | Suffocation/entrapment | | Multiple babies in crib | Dangerous | | Car seat sleeping | Positional risk |
What to Do
| If You See | Action | |------------|--------| | Unsafe practice | Speak up immediately | | Provider dismissive | Escalate concern | | Pattern of issues | Consider other care | | Serious concern | Report to licensing |
When Home Practices Differ
Common Conflicts
| Home Practice | Daycare Requirement | |---------------|---------------------| | Tummy sleeping | Must be on back | | Co-sleeping | Individual crib | | Blankets | None allowed | | Sleep positioners | Not permitted |
Working Together
| Strategy | How It Helps | |----------|--------------| | Understand why | Safety, not preference | | Transition at home | Practice back sleeping | | Trust the process | Babies adjust | | Communication | Share concerns |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025