A 25-year-old childcare worker accused of slapping two sleeping children was having an episode where his mental health briefly 'deteriorated', a court has heard.
The man, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been charged with two counts of common assault.
Police allege he slapped the children with an open palm while they were napping.
He had been working at a Panania childcare centre, in Sydney's southwest, until he was arrested shortly before 8am Saturday at a nearby Belmore address.
He appeared in court on Sunday, where prosecutors opposed bail arguing he was a danger to the community, especially children.
The prosecutor claimed CCTV had captured the alleged incident, Newscorp reported.
His defence lawyer said his one night in custody had been a 'wake-up call' and he was vulnerable because he has no history or experience with the justice system.
The man also has a wife and the pair were responsible financially for family in another country. He offered to give up his passport as part of bail conditions.
A childcare worker, 25, is accused of slapping two sleeping children (stock image)
Bail was granted on that condition and that he report to police once a week and get treatment for his mental health.
He cannot go near any childcare centres or airports.
The case will return to court on May 9.