Toddler's First Bed? What All Parents Must Know

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15 March 2022

Toddler's's First Bed? What All Parents Must Know.

Julia Canella | Home | 15 March 2022

The big-bed move – it's just one of the many milestones when it comes to life with your little one.

It's no doubt exciting – hello fun new interior project – but also confusing trying to understand when the time's right, and what signs to observe when your child is ready.

When should you make the transition?

Firstly, if your child is anywhere between 2-3½ years of age and happily sleeping in their cot, there's really no need to rush the move.

Doing so will cause unnecessary pressure, and you may find yourself having to backtrack. And let's keep it real – no parent needs to add more work into the fold.

Instead, ask yourself these questions:

Is your child toilet training? If so, safe and easy bathroom access is key, cot can go.

Is your child attempting to climb out of their cot? This could be hazardous. Again, cot can go.

Is a younger sibling in need of the cot? You'll need some time to prepare.

Plan ahead for the big move

For a seamless cot to bed changeover, consider the following:

Safety first: ensure you check chords, objects of all kinds (namely electricals) as well as stairs, windows and furniture are all safe to access, out of reach, locked-up or removed completely.
Try a toddler bed that uses a cot-sized mattress. Most convert from cots and make an ideal stepping-stone between a cot and single bed. The bonus? It'll buy you time to find the most adorable kids' bed linen to their liking (and reduces the risk of injury).
Place the mattress itself on the floor to get your child accustomed – this too will reduce the risk of injury.
If a younger sibling is moving into the cot, make the move 2-3 months ahead. This'll ensure your youngest is not begrudged (and subsequently reject the move entirely).

Provide emotional support

Your child's world is brimming with excitement, fear and surprise.

It's super-important to guide them through these feelings as they transition to their big-kid bed.

You can help take the pressure off their over-active minds by:

Keeping their bedtime routine business-as-usual but try adding any extra steps before the move. Include comfort toys and kids linen, such as blankets and coverlets. Comfort toys, novelty cushions, a soft night light and relaxing music are stress-reducing and tried-and-tested tools.
Considering an earlier bedtime to meet any feelings of over-excitement for those first few sleeps.
Looking to their role models: siblings, cousins and family friends are positive examples to use in conversation. Where appropriate, try to invite these familiar members to the discussion for extra support.
Involving your child (where possible). Pre-select your preferred styles of furniture and kids bedding, then, allow them to decide from this shortlist.
Getting your child to help or watch you assemble and prepare the bed: this can not only be reassuring but fun too (plus, no nasty surprises and big emotions).
Allowing them to climb into their new bed and arrange their bed linen as they wish: this'll help them to feel more settled and independent.
Saying goodnight and that you'll see them in the morning. This'll set-up any expectations, short and long-term, allowing them to feel reassured.

By observing and customising this advice to suit your household's needs, you're more likely to nail this big bed transition, and, maybe enjoy some personal time ...

Anything's possible!