This article originally appeared on The Bayside Leader and has been republished here with permission. By Jon Andrews. Photo: Paul Loughnan.
Are outdoor kinder kips for babies a cool idea?
A Brighton East childcare centre has launched a program whereby babies and toddlers can have their day sleeps outside — summer or winter.
Parents have to give consent for their children to sleep outside in the program designed to bring the natural environment into a child’s education.
Fox Kids Early Learning Centre has recently introduced the program for babies aged up to two years old to be able to have sleeps outdoors and under cover, if the temperature is between 10C and 30C.
“Their babies are thriving”
Manager Lucy Holmes said the project, known as “frigid napping”, started three weeks ago, and 12 parents of babies aged between five and 19 months had already signed up.
“It is something that is very big in Europe,” Ms Holmes said.
“It is a natural environment thing that has been proven through research that is a great way to boost oxygen intake, create relaxation and experience natural sights and sounds.
“Parents have embraced it and their babies are thriving.”
Children sleep head to toe on the floor on individual mattresses in blankets and are constantly monitored by educators, Ms Holmes said.
Ms Holmes said research done in northern Europe promoted benefits including longer sleeps, happier children and lesser instances of illnesses.
People aren’t 100 percent sold
Paediatric specialist Associate Professor Harriet Hiscock said the evidence was “anecdotal” at the moment, about the positive effects of outdoor sleeps at daycare.
“I’m not sure of the quality of research that is out there as to whether it makes any difference or not, but as long as sensible temperatures and precautions are taken, and it doesn’t harm the baby, then it should be fine,” Prof Hiscock said.
Early Learning Association Australia chief executive Shane Lucas said he didn’t know much about the concept, but a commonsense approach should be taken with all aspects of child care.
“Parents should be fully informed and the child not exposed to any danger,” Mr Lucas said.
“Any concerns expressed regarding safety would need to be fully analysed.”