How And When To Move From A Cot To A Toddler Bed

Moving into a toddler bed is a big event! Of course, some children love their cot and are happy to stay there but some want to climb out of them as soon as they wake up!

Here are some key questions to ask yourself when thinking of making the big move from a cot to a toddler bed:

Is your child safe physically?

If she can nearly climb out, then very soon there will be the possibility that she will actually fall out whilst attempting to climb out. This could clearly be dangerous and you need to act before there is any risk of this.

Usually children will be able to get out of their cots from 15 - 24 months though if they are taller or particularly good at climbing then it might be sooner! To stay safe meanwhile consider putting a mattress, cushions or folded blankets beside and under the cot to soften any fall.

Does your child find her cot too confining to the extent where she gets very distressed?

If your child cries a lot to get out of her cot and is no longer satisfied with waiting for you or you leaving toys in her cot for some morning play then it could be time to move her into a toddler bed.

Is your child too big for the cot?

Then it is time to get a bed! Children need space to relax their bodies and get a good night's sleep.

Cots have their advantages: if the baby or child is confined then they are safe. The mum or dad can look after other children knowing where their toddler is and knowing that she is not about to come to any harm by crawling about or going downstairs.

If your child has been in a cot since they were a baby, then it is familiar and safe place. Moving from it is a big step and will require careful consideration. Your child might find the idea of moving out of her cot scarey and be unsure about the idea of leaving her nest.

You need to make the move out of her cot a gentle, bit-by-bit process. Remember your child is unique and what works for someone else might not work for her. Take a look at the tips below to see which ones suit you and adapt them to fit you and your child.

Top Toddler Bed Time Tips

• Choose a time when there are no other major changes going on in her life e.g. new sibling, potty training issues, weaning, moving house, going on holiday. Make one change at a time and remember there is no rush.
• Talk to your little one about moving out of her cot into a big bed - there's a little book dedicated to the subject. Does she like the idea? If not, what does she think about it?
• Take the cot sides down so that she can get out of her bed when she likes. Here you are gradually taking down the boundaries of being in a cot and this should make the freedom of having a bed less overwhelming.
• Take the cot mattress with its familiar bedding onto the floor and make a mini bed. You could also take the base of the cot out of the cot and put it on the floor so that the mattress has a firm base and air can circulate.
• Alternatively, the cot stays as is and you bring the new bed into the room. Your toddler can then get used to the bed and see where it is and what it's like. Then she can move straight from the cot to the bed. It would be frustrating to move your child from the cot, to the mattress bed and then she doesn't want to go into the specially chosen toddler bed!
• You could also use the toddler bed for naps and quiet story time or play time during the day so that your toddler can get used to it, before leaving her cot for her bed.
• Another idea is then to encourage your toddler to use the cot as a place for her teddy bears. Gradually as she enjoys her new bed, she will be less attached to her cot, giving you the option to store or get rid of it. And more space is always welcome!
• Your toddler needs to love her new bed and choosing a new bed can be great fun. The right bed can avoid toddler sleep issues and if your child loves her bed then she will look forward to her toddler bedtime.

Make the move out of her cot into a toddler bed something to celebrate - she is growing into a big girl, and this is an exciting time for her. Have a cake, have a treat, tell your friends so that they can congratulate your daughter (or son). She will feel so proud of herself - and you will too!