When and how to transition from cot to bed: Expert tips for parents

Considering moving your toddler from a cot to a toddler or big kid bed? We’ve got you covered with this guide on how and when to transition from cot to bed by Tara Mitchell from The Gentle Sleep Specialist. 
A toddler prepares to get out his Toddler Bed by pulling off the covers

Many families I work with find that their children were great sleepers until they moved into a toddler bed. Suddenly, they became distracted by the endless possibilities in front of them - getting out of bed, playing with toys, and pushing every boundary imaginable. 

When to move your toddler to a bed: Age and readiness considerations

When considering the move from a cot to a bed, age plays a crucial role. The longer in the cot, the better. I recommend keeping your toddler in their cot until around 2.5 to 3 years of age and up.

At this age, they are better equipped to understand the limitations and boundaries that come with moving to a toddler or big kid bed. Some of these boundaries may include:

  • Remaining in their bed once tucked in. It’s okay to calmly and consistently return them if they get up - this teaches predictability and security.
  • You leading the bedtime routine. Be the kind but sturdy leader, not the child. This means avoiding drawn-out negotiations, multiple requests, and procrastination tactics that delay sleep.
  • Not giving an audience to bedtime performances. If bedtime turns into a show of resistance or silliness, limit engagement and gently reset the boundary, so they learn it’s not a time for mucking around or play. We want to have alot of play and connection time with them in the lead up to bedtime.
  • Keeping your energy calm and confident. Toddlers are attuned to our cues. The more composed we are the better response. They feel when a boundary is solid.

Choose your timing wisely

  • Avoid making the transition during other significant changes where possible, such as the arrival of a new baby or moving house.
  • Do not make this change in the hopes of resolving sleep issues; it's very rarely they resolve. This move is best made when your toddler's sleep is already in a good space.

That said, if your little one is regularly climbing out of their cot or it has become unsafe for them to remain, it's time to make the move.

A mum converts the ergoPouch Lyra Convertible Cot to a Toddler Bed

How to transition your toddler to a bed

Convert your cot or set up your toddler bed

  • If you own a cot that converts from a cot to a toddler bed, like the Lyra Convertible Cot or ellska Skye Cot, you can easily remove and replace one side of the cot with a safety guardrail. 
  • If you're moving to a new toddler bed or big kid bed, start using a firm, flat mattress on the floor. Keep them in a Pouch if they are not comfortable with a quilt yet.
  • Complete your toddler's bedding set with a toddler pillow (for kids over 2 years) and quilt to help them learn how to use bedding and stay in one place.

Create a safe sleep environment

  • Be mindful of your toddler’s ability to climb. Secure furniture, anchor drawers and remove anything they could use to climb.
  • Keep a soft night light on for comfort and safety, and consider a baby gate to manage unsupervised access to other areas of the house overnight. 
  • Once your toddler transitions to a bed, remove their sleeping bag and switch to a grow suit or sleepwear that allows free movement but keeps them warm.

Involve your toddler in the process

  • Let them help choose their bedding, pillow, or a special comfort toy to create a sense of ownership and pride. Make the move exciting.
  • Use a bedtime stamp or sticker chart to give them a sense of control. They get to mark off each step (bath, PJs, brush teeth, story, bed) as they go.
  • Talk about the transition and celebrate progress.
  • Read books about moving to a “big kid bed”.
  • Praise them for their efforts and bravery.

The big tip: Maintain your bedtime routine

  • Stick to familiar bedtime routines and avoid introducing new roles or habits.
  • Familiar sleep items, such as a comforter or White Noise Machine, can also help ease the transition.
  • Give your little one every chance to make this transition without starting new habits.

Set boundaries

Toddlers are notorious for pushing boundaries, especially around bedtime. It's crucial to set clear boundaries and stick to them. 

It is hard to expect our toddlers to abide by a number of boring requests before bedtime, when they are tired. Try mixing things up before bed and use positive reinforcement: do the bath a little earlier, eat outdoors for dinner, play.

Connection between toddler and parent/guardian is key

When it comes to the lead up to bedtime, little ones will have a far easier time settling off to bed when they feel they have had time and connection with their big people - especially during transitions like from their cot to bed. Find time to immerse yourself in your toddler. Avoid distractions and just be in their presence.

Use age-appropriate sleepwear for safety and mobility

The transition to a bed offers kids even more freedom and mobility, so make sure they're wearing age-appropriate sleepwear that allows for safe movement, like a Sleep Onesie or two-piece pyjamas.

Please be patient

These transitions do take time. Slow and steady.

  • Go at your child’s pace.
  • It’s okay to keep the cot in the room for a while. Sometimes just having it there helps them feel safe and less pressured to adjust immediately, unless they are climbing out and safety is an issue.
  • Be confident with the change, try not to just introduce sitting on their bed to sleep, for example, but come back to check on them.
  • If they have had a (SIDS safe) comfort item in their cot, like a ruggie, then transfer it to their bed.
  • Begin from the sleep they take easiest. This move is typically best at bedtime.

 

For more information on this transition and other sleep tips, explore the Early Years Sleep Guide for 2-5 year olds.

A cheeky toddler grins up at his parent from in his toddler bed

Need some help?

If you're struggling with bedtime transitions, The Gentle Sleep Specialist offers an online Baby Sleep Program and Toddler Sleep Program to provide support. They also offer 1:1 consults for more personalised assistance. Remember, kind boundaries and confidence are key during this transition. Happy sleeping!

About the author

Tara Mitchell is a former paediatric nurse of 15 years and is now a leading sleep consultant, helping families through the challenges of sleep. Struggling with her own personal experience with a sleepless child, Tara began the Gentle Sleep Specialist to help other parents on their sleep journey.

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