When should I move my toddler from a cot to a bed?
That moment when you realise your little one has outgrown their cot brings mixed emotions—pride at their growing independence, but also anxiety about disrupted sleep routines. As a sleep consultant who has guided countless families through this milestone, I am sharing gentle strategies to make this transition smoother for everyone involved.
When Is the Right Time?
Most children are ready between 2-3.5 years, but readiness signs matter more than age:
Climbing out of the cot (safety concern!)
Asking for a "big bed" like older siblings
Height exceeding cot rails
Trust your instincts - if you're constantly worried about escape attempts, it might be time regardless of age.
Preparation Is Key
Involve Your Child: Take them shopping for new bedding or let them choose sheets with favourite characters. Build excitement while emphasising it's for "big kids who stay in bed all night."
Keep the Environment Familiar: Place the new bed in the same position as the cot was. Maintain the same comforters/teddies, white noise, and room arrangement to preserve sleep associations.
Safety First: Install bed rails if needed, secure furniture to walls, and use doorknob covers if wandering is a concern. A stair gate at the bedroom door provides peace of mind while maintaining their sense of growing independence.
The Transition Process
Start with Daytime Practice: Have a few "practice naps" or quiet time sessions in the new bed before attempting overnight sleep.
Maintain Your Bedtime Routine: Your consistent, calming routine signals sleep time regardless of where they're sleeping. This familiar sequence provides security during change.
Set Clear Boundaries: Explain gently but firmly that they need to stay in bed. A special "bedtime buddy" can be designated as the "keeper of the bed" to encourage staying put.
Respond Consistently: When they inevitably get up (and they will!), calmly and quietly return them to bed with minimal interaction. A simple "It's sleep time" and a gentle tuck-in works better than lengthy explanations or negotiations.
Managing Challenges
Early Morning Wandering: Try a child-safe clock that visually shows when it's okay to get up.
Middle-of-Night Visits: For the first few nights, respond quickly to minimise disruption. Gradually increase response time to encourage self-settling.
Regression: A temporary return to the cot isn't failure if everyone needs a break. Reset and try again in a few weeks.
Celebrate Success
Make a big deal of each successful night. A sticker chart or small morning reward reinforces positive behaviour. Remember to praise specific actions: "You stayed in your big kid bed all night!"
A Final Reassurance
This transition rarely happens without a few bumpy nights, but with consistency and patience, most children adjust within 1-2 weeks. Your calm confidence reassures your child that this new sleep arrangement is safe and permanent.