Starting Crèche? Here’s What to Expect with Sleep

Starting crèche / nursery is a huge milestone, for your little one and for you. It often comes with a mix of emotions: excitement, worry, relief, guilt… and questions like “Will they nap there?” or “What will happen to our sleep routine?”

If you're in this phase or it's just around the corner, you're not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong if things get a little bumpy at first.

Sleep changes are common when starting crèche

Even if your baby or toddler has been sleeping well, you might notice changes like:

• Shorter or skipped naps at crèche
  
  

• Trouble settling at bedtime
  
  

• More night waking or early starts
  
  

• Extra clinginess, especially in the evenings
  
  

This is totally normal. Your child is adjusting to a new space, new faces, new sounds, and possibly a different nap schedule. It takes time, and that’s okay.

Why does sleep get affected?

Starting crèche is a big developmental shift. Your little one is working hard to take in everything that’s new,  and that can make them overtired, overstimulated, or just in need of extra comfort.

Plus, crèches often have a set nap routine that may not line up perfectly with what your child is used to. Some babies nap less at crèche simply because they’re too distracted or not used to sleeping in a group setting.

What can you do to support them?

• Keep things consistent at home – Stick to your usual bedtime routine where possible. Familiar patterns help your child feel safe.
  
  

• Offer connection and comfort – After a busy day apart, your little one may need more cuddles, one-on-one time, or a slower bedtime wind-down.
  
  

• Be flexible (for now) – It’s okay if naps are shorter or bedtime needs to shift a little while they adjust.
  
  

• Don’t panic if sleep dips – Regression-like sleep is common during big transitions. With time and support, most children settle back into a more predictable pattern.
  
  

A gentle note on expectations

Give yourself grace. Your child is learning and adapting, and so are you. It’s okay if sleep feels messy for a while. It doesn’t mean you’ve gone backwards or that they’ll never nap well again.

If sleep is really off track and you’re not sure what to do next, there’s always support available, tailored to your family’s needs and values.