Transitioning a child from a cot to a bed is a significant milestone in their development, marking the transition from babyhood to toddlerhood. While this shift can be exciting, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. To help make the move from cot to bed as smooth as possible for both you and your little one, we've compiled a list of valuable tips and strategies to consider.
Timing the Move from Cot to Bed
Choosing the right time to make the transition is crucial. Most experts suggest making the move between the ages of 18 months to 3 years, but keep in mind that every child is different. Pay attention to cues like your child's readiness for independence. The right time to transition from cot to bed could be when your child can climb out of their cot or they’re toilet training and need to use the toilet or potty at night.
We made the switch with our firstborn due to necessity when he was 2 years old, baby number 2 was on the way and we needed the cot! Whereas for our second child we had the luxury of deciding when to move and transitioned to a toddler bed when she was 3 years old.
Avoid making the switch during times of upheaval, like starting daycare, moving homes when there’s a lot of change at home.
Involve Your Child in the Move from Cot to Bed
Involve your child in the process to give them a sense of ownership and excitement about the transition. Let them help choose their new beddings, pillows, and even the bed itself if possible. This involvement can make them feel more comfortable and positive about the change. Our daughter loved her Joey Swag baby sleeping bag so she transitioned with her Joey Swag. As you can see from the photo below she was super happy to be in her “big” bed.
Familiar Surroundings
Place the new bed in the same location where the cot used to be. Familiar surroundings can help your child feel secure and ease their anxiety about the change. You can also keep some of their favourite stuffed animals or continue to use their Joey Swag baby sleeping bag to create a sense of continuity.
Gradual Introduction
Introduce the new bed gradually. Start by having your child take naps in the bed before moving on to sleeping through the night. This helps them become accustomed to the new environment without feeling overwhelmed.
Safety First
As your child transitions to a bed, safety should be a top priority. Consider the following safety measures:
- Sart with a mattress on the floor. Alternatively, install bed rails to prevent them from rolling out of bed during the night. With our first born we used a bed rail that tucked in between the mattress and the ensemble.
- Ensure that any furniture nearby is secured to the wall to avoid tipping hazards.
- Prevent strangulation hazards by ensuring that blind and curtain cords are at least 1.6m from the floor. Lose any hanging mobiles.
- Remove anything your child could climb on such as chairs, couches or ladders.
- Keep small objects and any household poisons out of the bedroom such as coins, small batteries, small toys, medicines, aromatherapy/essential or massage oils, moisturisers or air fresheners, incense or pot pourri.
- Ensure electrical appliances like heaters and fans meet Australian safety standards and consider removing them from the room to prevent your child from tripping, hurting or electrocuting themselves if they get up at night.
- Use a baby monitor with at least sound and potentially even video so you can hear and watch your child. Remember children don’t know the dangers and they’re curious.
- You may want to consider either installing a safety gate in the doorway of your child’s room or shutting the door at night. Otherwise, you’ll need to ensure the rest of your house is safe for your child in case your child gets up during the night.
You can refer to the Red Nose article for further safety information.
Positive Reinforcement
Celebrate your child's achievements during this transition. Praise them for their successful naps or nights spent in their new bed. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and make them more inclined to embrace the change.
Bedtime Routine Consistency
Maintain a consistent bedtime routine as you make the switch. A familiar routine can help signal to your child that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep, regardless of the change in sleeping arrangements. A bedtime routine helps a child because they know what is coming next.
Create a Relaxing Environment
Make the bedroom a comfortable and inviting space for your child to wind down and sleep. Dim the lights, use calming colours. A bedroom is all about sleep and its associations with sleep
Patience Is Key
Expect some resistance or setbacks during the transition. Your child might not immediately take to the new bed, and that's okay. Be patient and understanding as they adjust to the change this is a big milestone for your little one.
Be Available When Moving your Child from Cot to Bed
During the initial nights of transition, your child might need some extra reassurance. Be available to offer comfort if they wake up frightened or unsure of their surroundings. This support will help them associate the new bed with feelings of safety.
In summary
Transitioning your child from cot to bed is a significant step in their growth journey. While it might present some challenges, with careful planning, patience, and understanding, you can help your child adjust to their new sleeping arrangements comfortably. By creating a positive, secure and safe environment, involving them in the process, and maintaining a consistent routine, you'll pave the way for successful and peaceful nights in their new bed.