Moving your toddler into a real bed
There are no set rules for when you should move your child to a big bed. Usually at around 18 months, your toddler might attempt to climb out of their cot. They may even ask to sleep in a grown-up bed. The transition can mean a big change for the whole family, so here are a few pointers to help you make the move as smoothly as possible.Let them choose
To mark the occasion and help your child feel excited about the move, let them choose their own bedding for their new bed. If you are worried they might tumble out of it, either add guardrails or place the mattress directly on the floor. Of course, whatever bed you choose, be sure to place it away from windows, radiators, wall lamps, curtains, blinds and window cords, to keep your toddler safe.
Take it slowly
You don’t want your child to feel displaced, so make the move from cot to bed a gradual one. You could start by letting them nap in their new bed to get them accustomed to the new setup. They may surprise you by sleeping in their new bed straightaway!
Keep the routine the same
Don’t change your toddler’s bedtime routine. If possible, place the new bed where the cot once was. And if the bath-book-bed routine worked before, it’ll work again. Mixing up the bedtime routine may just confuse them.Keep exploration to a minimum
For most toddlers, the newfound freedom to roam will prove irresistible. If you have a wanderer on your hands, be prepared to calmly and quietly return them to bed again and again. Keep it as boring as possible and they will get the idea. Toddlers love to please you, and like to do things for themselves, so helping them learn to love their new bed should be a win-win situation.
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