Aim

The aim of this study was to describe the experience-based knowledge of parents of children aged 0–3 years for creating a positive sleep situation in the family.

Design

This study has a qualitative design. Data were collected using an online survey and analysed using the critical incident technique.

Methods

The study participants were recruited through an announcement posted in parenting groups on a social media platform in September 2018. A total of 93 parents answered the questionnaire; 76 of the parents matched the study's selection criteria, and their responses were included in the analysis.

Results

The results are presented from the two main questions in the survey: “Strategies for creating a positive sleep situation” and “Advice to new parents regarding sleep”. Having routines and reading the child's signals were important strategies, as were creating good conditions for sleep and making sure the child was well-fed and content at bedtime. Winding down and giving the child closeness and touch was described as important, and some parents would co-sleep to soothe the child quickly and create a sense of security and belonging. Parents’ most frequent advice to other parents was to accept the situation and to let go of the idea that the child should sleep without waking up in a separate bed or room.

Conclusion

Personal preferences and needs are likely to vary among individuals, and it is important that nurses tailor sleep advice in accordance with families’ preferences and needs, taking individual variations and views into account.