MOVING FROM COT TO TODDLER BED | BABYMORE’S LEARNING ADVENTURES

Moving your toddler from cot to toddler bed is an important transition. Many parents wonder why, when and how to do it. Babymore is here to answer these questions to help you and your child make this huge transition smoothly and comfortably.

If you are ready to make this transition and need some tips about changing nursery to toddler room, here is a detailed blog by Babymore for you. 

Babymore offers a wide range of sturdy, safe and premium quality nursery furniture including cots collection. Our cot beds are designed in such a way that they can be used for your child from birth to almost 5 years of age. They can easily be converted into a toddler bed when needed.

Why Move Your Child From Cot To Toddler Bed?

First question that pops in your mind when thinking about moving your child to toddler bed is why exactly do you need to make this transition. There are many reasons for this, some of them are:

1. Your child has started to climb out of it even when the mattress is placed in the lowest setting position. This puts them at risk of falling and hurting themselves.
2. Your child has started toilet training and they need to go to the washroom during the night. It is easier for your child to get out of their toddler bed by themselves at night to use the toilet.
3. You have welcomed a new baby at home and need it for the newborn.
4. Your child has outgrown it and is no longer sleeping comfortably in it.
5. Your child is expressing interest in sleeping in a ‘big kid bed’.

When To Move Your Child To Toddler Bed?

Most children move to a toddler bed around 18 months to 3 years of age. But there is no hard and fast rule. All children grow at their own pace. Parents should observe when their child is ready and when it is necessary to make this move. It is also suggested to wait till your child can physically get in and out of the toddler bed safely by themselves.

How To Make This Transition Easy?

Moving to toddler bed is a huge change for your child. This change might come with some challenges. This transition can be very smooth for some children but it can be a bit difficult. Whether this transition is easy or difficult for your child, here are some tips on how you can help your child to make this move.

1. Bed-Time Routine:

It is important to stick to their usual bed-time routine in order to make the transition easier. As one change at a time is enough for them.

2. Keep Familiarity Where You Can:

Changing their sleeping place is already a big change for your little one. This change can be easier if they have familiar things around them. Try using the same sleeping bag, pillow, sheet, blanket or PJs your child was using in their cot. This will give them a sense of security and comfort. Once your child is adjusted to their new toddler bed, then you can think about making a bedding transition.

3. Make The Transition Gradually: 

Remember not to rush the transition. Every child is different and they all take their own time to adjust in a new environment. You can have your child’s new toddler bed set up in their room where they are still sleeping in their cot. This will give them time to get familiar with the new bed. Initially try using the bed for day time naps only and gradually move towards using their toddler bed for night time sleep as well.

4. Positive Reinforcement:

Praise your child or give them some reward for sleeping in their toddler bed. This will encourage them and they would easily adjust with this transition.

5. Its Okay To GO BACK:

Remember there is no hurry. If you feel like your child is not adjusting to this change at all or they are not ready for it yet, you can always go back. You can try again in a few months when your child is ready.

How To Make The Bedroom Safe For Your Child:

When your child is sleeping in their cot they are surrounded by the rails and their movement is restricted. When they start sleeping in the toddler bed they can get out of their bed and move around freely. It is really important to make their room safe for them to avoid any accidents.

Here are a few tips for you to make their room safe:

1. Use safety locks for drawers and cupboards so your child cannot open them.
2. Keep electrical appliances out of reach of your child.
3. Cover the electrical sockets with socket covers.
4. Take away any furniture that your child can climb on like chairs and ladders.
5. You can install a safety gate on the bedroom door or  in the doorway of your child’s room to avoid any accidents if they get up in the middle of night.
6. You can also use bed bumpers and bed rails to save your child from falling down the bed.

If you want to learn more, here is a blog about cot bed safety guidelines by Babymore for you.

What Type Of Bed You Can Use?

• Floor Bed:

You can put a mattress on the floor for your child instead of directly shifting them to a toddler bed. This is safe and reduces the risk of your child falling off the bed.

• Toddler beds:

You can get a bed that is specifically designed for toddlers and can be adjusted in length and width. Most toddler beds are the same size as a cot, so you can use the same mattress and bedding.

• Single Beds:

A single bed can be used for a long time by your toddler. Although there is an increased risk of your child falling down from a single bed so it is good to use guard rails or bed rails with a single bed.

• Cot Bed:

There are some cots that can be easily converted into toddler beds. You can use them for your child from age 0 to almost 5. Read the manufacturer’s manual to convert them into a toddler bed.

If you are looking to buy one for your child, explore Babymore’s collection of premium quality cots and cot beds. They are a perfect blend of safety, comfort and style. These sturdy cots come in a variety of colours and styles which can complement any nursery theme.