Most toddlers move from their cots to beds between 18 months and three years old. There’s no strict and fast rule on time as it is different for each family.
Parents often make the change as their toddlers are capable of climbing out of their crib or when they become too big to comfortably sleep within their crib.
You’ll likely be able to determine when your child is at the stage of development. However, you could also consult your health care professional for help.
If you’re expecting a baby and you think your baby wont sleep in cot, it’s best to begin introducing your toddler to the crib at least six weeks prior to the date of your due. This will allow your baby an opportunity to adjust to sleeping in a bed before the arrival of the baby.
Children with older siblings typically are more able to make the transition since they tend to want to be an exactly as big sister or brother.
If you prefer to make the switch earlier, then you can do so at 3 or 4 months older instead. Allow your toddler to get familiar with the new baby for about a month when you plan to switch your baby following the birth. The arrival of a new baby into the home is already a significant change for your toddler; therefore, a little stability can assist them with the change.
According to the Babies and Beauty site ,each toddler responds to the arrival of a new bed in their unique way. Some children adjust quickly to the new bed, but others will require some assistance. Determine when you’ll introduce the change, and speak to your child about it for a few days or so prior to the date to make sure it’s not unexpected.
To make the transition easier, place it in the same location as the crib, if you are able to. Set up your child’s familiar soft toys, stickle bricks and other items that will soothe your child on the bed, too. Your child may enjoy sleeping by cuddling their old cot blanket as a soft blanket.
If your toddler is older enough, you can allow them to choose their own bedroom or their bedding. You can even host the “Big Bed” party and invite guests and grandparents. They could be so excited to get an extra-large bed that they are eager to get into it!
Some toddlers immediately go to one bed, while others are moved to the toddler bed, which is smaller and is usually close to the ground. The beds of toddlers usually include guard rails.
If your child is moving to one bed, you can put up another guardrail to keep the bed from falling. It’s also possible to relocate furniture to a different area from your bed and place pillows on the ground to ensure that your child isn’t smashed when they get up in the evening.
When you’re in bed, your child will be able to wake in the night, so be sure that you have a toddler-proofed bedroom to ensure that they are safe:
- Make sure they aren’t getting to any electrical sockets or cables.
- Set the bed against the wall so your child will be less likely to slip out.
- Take small toys and objects from the floor during the evening.
- Be sure that any window blinds’ cords are secure away from your child’s reach.
- Think about putting a fence on the door of your child or on the highest point of the staircase.
Some toddlers make the transition to bed in their ease, however, for some, it’s a huge move, and they’ll need plenty of encouragement from you. It’s possible to offer your toddler some patience and time.
They’ll be influenced by your actions, so try not to be too stressed when it’s difficult initially. Be calm and stay with your routine as much as is possible. This will help reassure your kid that they’re doing plenty that’s the same.
Try a nightlight in case your child is afraid of the dark. If they wake up during the night, bring them slowly back to sleep, Reassure them and then say goodnight. It may be necessary to repeat this several times until they master it.
