Is Your Baby Starting Childcare? Here’s How to Prepare for the Sleep Transition (Without the Overwhelm)

Returning to work after maternity leave is a big step - and if your baby is starting childcare, it can feel like everything is changing all at once. One of the most common concerns I hear from parents in this season is: “How will childcare affect my baby’s sleep?”

Whether you're worried about nap schedules, overtiredness, or how to settle your little one after a busy day, you're not alone. This blog will guide you through simple, supportive steps to prepare for the transition - so both you and your baby can adjust with more confidence (and hopefully a little more rest, too).

Why Childcare Can Disrupt Sleep

The reality is: changes to sleep are common in the early days of childcare. New people, new environments, and different routines can all impact how (and how much) your baby sleeps.

You might notice:

• Shorter naps than usual

• Early morning wakings

• Increased clinginess or night waking

• Resistance at bedtime

All of this is normal and (usually!) temporary. But with a little preparation, you can ease your baby into this new chapter and make the adjustment gentler for everyone.

1. Shift Your Baby’s Routine Gradually

If you know what time your childcare offers naps or meals, try to begin shifting your baby’s schedule slightly in that direction at home.

For example:

• If childcare naps are earlier than at home, move your baby's nap forward by 15 minutes every few days.

• Align meals and wake windows where possible to mirror what your baby will experience during the day.

Small changes over time are much less stressful than a sudden switch.

2. Practice Independent Sleep (If You Haven’t Already)

If your baby has only ever napped at home in your arms or with specific sleep cues (like rocking or feeding), now is a great time to begin gently encouraging more independent settling.

That might look like:

• Introducing a consistent nap routine

• Putting your baby down awake

• Using a comforter or sleep sack they’ll also use at childcare

It’s not about perfection - just helping them learn how to fall asleep without relying solely on you.

3. Build Familiarity with the Childcare Setting

Many childcare settings will allow short “settling in” sessions. Use these visits to:

• Explore the room together

• Meet the carers

• Let your baby lie down in the cot or sleep area

Bringing a comfort item from home (a familiar blanket, sleep sack etc) can also help ease the transition.

4. Stick to a Solid Bedtime Routine at Home

Your evenings may feel more rushed now that you're back at work, but a calming, predictable bedtime routine is more important than ever. It helps:

• Signal to your baby that it’s time to unwind

• Provide comfort after a stimulating day

• Improve nighttime sleep after shorter childcare naps

Even 15–20 minutes of a consistent wind-down (bath, stories, cuddles, milk) can work wonders.

5. Prepare for a Temporary Regression

Yes, sleep might get worse before it gets better. Your baby is adjusting to a whole new world, and it's perfectly normal for sleep to wobble for a few weeks.

Be patient, stay consistent, and know that this phase will pass.

If you need to offer extra comfort or respond to more wake-ups than usual, that’s okay. Trust your instincts - your presence and reassurance are what your baby needs most.

6. Communicate with Childcare Staff About Sleep

Your baby’s carers want to support you, so don’t be afraid to share your baby’s sleep preferences:

• Do they use a comforter?

• How do they usually settle?

Just remember: the childcare providers might not be able to replicate home routines exactly. Flexibility is key, and over time, most babies adjust surprisingly well.

7. Look After You, Too

This transition isn’t just big for your baby - it’s big for you, too. Returning to work, managing childcare drop-offs, and handling sleep disruptions is a lot.

Some gentle reminders:

• It's okay to feel emotional about leaving your baby.

• Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy - just 10 minutes of breathing space can help.

• You’re doing a brilliant job, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

Need Support Navigating This Transition? I’m Here to Help.

If your baby’s sleep has taken a nosedive since starting childcare - or if you’re trying to prepare ahead of time - I’d love to support you.

Whether you need help syncing schedules, settling independently, or just surviving the overtired afternoons, I offer 1:1 sleep support tailored to your family’s needs.

Explore Sleep Support Options Here Or grab your free Childcare Sleep Transition Checklist Here

You’re Not Alone

This season is full of change - but it’s also full of growth. With a little preparation and a lot of compassion (for your baby and yourself), the transition to childcare can be a positive one.

You’ve got this - and I’m here whenever you need a little extra support.