When to Transition from a Cot to a Toddler Bed

One of the biggest transitions in toddlerhood is moving from a cot to a "big kid" bed. It’s an exciting milestone, but also one that comes with questions and challenges.

• When is the right time to transition?

• Will my child stay in bed all night?

• How do I make the switch as smooth as possible?

  
  

There’s no universal age for moving to a toddler bed, but understanding the signs of readiness, common challenges, and strategies for a smooth transition can make the change much easier—for both you and your child.

When Should You Move Your Child from a Cot to a Toddler Bed?

Most children transition between 18 months and 3.5 years, but the right time depends on developmental readiness, not just age.

Signs Your Toddler Might Be Ready:

✔ Climbing out of the cot – If your toddler consistently climbs over the rails, it may be time to switch for safety reasons.

✔ Showing interest in a bed – If your child talks about wanting a "big kid" bed or enjoys lying on a sibling’s or parent’s bed, it’s a good sign they’re ready.

✔ Potty training at night – If they’re starting to use the toilet independently, a bed makes bathroom trips easier.

✔ Able to follow simple instructions – If they understand and follow bedtime routines, they’re more likely to stay in their new bed.

If your toddler is sleeping well in their cot and not climbing out, there’s no rush to move them—many children stay in cots until around 3 years old.

How to Prepare for the Transition

Moving to a toddler bed is a big change, and a little preparation goes a long way.

1. Talk About It in Advance

Toddlers thrive on predictability and routine, so introduce the idea before making the switch.

How to do this:

• Read books about moving to a big bed to make it an exciting step.

• Talk positively about the change: "You’re growing up! Soon you’ll have your very own big bed."

• Involve them in the process—let them pick out new bedding or a stuffed animal to sleep with.

Giving your child time to mentally prepare reduces anxiety around the change.

2. Choose the Right Bed

Some families go straight to a twin or full-sized bed, while others use a toddler bed, which is lower to the ground and fits a cot mattress.

Considerations when choosing a bed:

• Safety first – Look for a bed with low height or install bed rails to prevent falls.

• Comfort & familiarity – Using the same cot mattress in a toddler bed can make the transition easier.

• Room setup – Make sure the space is safe if your child gets out of bed at night (e.g., secure furniture, remove potential hazards).

  
  

3. Maintain a Familiar Bedtime Routine

Consistency is key when making any transition. Keep bedtime as normal as possible so your child feels safe in their new bed.

Tips for a smooth routine:

• Follow the same order of events each night (bath, book, cuddle, bed).

• Keep a favourite comfort item (like a stuffed animal or blanket).

• Dim the lights and keep bedtime calm and predictable.

  
  

A familiar bedtime routine reassures your toddler that nothing else is changing—just their bed.

4. Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries

The biggest challenge of moving to a toddler bed is that your child now has the freedom to get out.

How to prevent bedtime battles:

✔ Explain bedtime rules: “After we read our story, we stay in bed until morning.”

✔ Use a toddler clock: A colour-changing nightlight can signal when it’s time to wake up.

✔ Keep nighttime interactions calm: If they get out of bed, walk them back silently without a big reaction.

It may take time for them to adjust, but consistency helps reinforce the new routine.

Common Challenges & How to Handle Them

1. They Keep Getting Out of Bed

Many toddlers will test boundaries by getting out of bed repeatedly.

How to respond:

• Calmly return them to bed every time without engaging in conversation.

• Avoid turning it into a game—keep interactions brief and boring.

• Praise them in the morning if they stayed in bed all night.

  
  

2. Bedtime Resistance & Stalling

Some toddlers try to delay bedtime with extra hugs, drinks of water, or one more book.

What to do:

• Offer two choices before bed: “Do you want the blue pyjamas or the red ones?”

• Stick to one last drink, cuddle, and story—then lights out.

• Set a timer for “last requests” so they know when it’s time to sleep.

  
  

3. Night Wakings & Fear of Sleeping Alone

Transitioning to a new bed can lead to more night wakings.

How to help:

• Offer a soft nightlight if they seem scared.

• Reassure them with a consistent phrase: “You’re safe, it’s time to sleep.”

• Avoid bringing them into your bed if you want them to stay in their own.

  
  

4. Regression After the Move

It’s common for toddlers to wake more often or struggle with sleep after the transition.

How to manage it:

• Be patient and consistent—regression is temporary.

• Keep responding the same way each night to reinforce the new routine.

• Focus on positive reinforcement—celebrate when they sleep well.

  
  

Most sleep disruptions resolve within a few weeks as your child adjusts.

When NOT to Transition to a Toddler Bed

While moving to a toddler bed is an exciting step, timing is important.

Avoid transitioning if:

• A new sibling is arriving soon – If possible, make the switch a few months before or after a sibling arrives to avoid feelings of displacement.

• Your child is already struggling with big changes – Potty training, starting nursery, or moving house can make the transition harder.

• Your toddler is under 18 months – Most children aren’t ready for the responsibility of a bed until closer to 2 years.

  
  

If the first attempt at transitioning is difficult, it’s okay to wait and try again later.

Making the Move at the Right Time

Moving from a cot to a toddler bed is a major milestone, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.

• Watch for signs of readiness.

• Keep bedtime routines consistent.

• Set boundaries while offering reassurance.

• Expect some adjustment time—but stay patient.

  
  

With preparation, clear expectations, and a gentle approach, most toddlers adapt within a few weeks.

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