Naturally Healthy Parenting The parent's guide to a healthy family
There are lots of significant milestones in your little one’s life, but one of the biggest for toddlers has to be moving from their cot to a bed. Once they reach a certain age and size, you’re probably starting to worry about them trying to climb over the side and hurt themselves. The transition to a toddler bed isn’t always easy on either of you, but it will have to happen eventually. Luckily, there are lots of tried and tested ways to help your child feel more comfortable. You can turn the move into an exciting adventure for your grown-up boy or girl who’s ready for a big kid’s bed with these smart tips.
Try Using a Convertible Cot
If moving from a cot to a bed is a long way off, you can start by buying the right crib. There are lots of them that can easily be converted into a toddler bed by removing one side. These models are excellent for making a smooth transition because very little needs to change. But this isn’t possible for everyone since you might need the cot for a new baby or perhaps already have one that doesn’t convert.
Let Them Choose Their Bed
If you need to invest in a new toddler bed, involve your little one in the process. You can make the whole thing much more exciting if you let them pick out a bed, along with some cool bedding to go with it. There are lots of options for childrens beds, from plain designs to quirky shapes that will transform bedtime into an adventure. If you don’t want to change beds too often, you could try a full-sized single bed too. A guard on the side will help to stop them falling out if you’re worried about them rolling over during the night.
Make a Big Deal of the Move
Moving into a new bed can be scary for a toddler who’s used to the familiarity of sleeping in their cot. But there are plenty of things you can do to make sure they’re excited about the move, instead of anxious. Emphasise how only big boys and girls get to sleep in proper beds and that the transition will make them incredibly grown up. However, try not to push this too much as they can feel a bit miffed at no longer getting to be the baby of the family. Letting them choose how to decorate their room is part of this. As well as new bedding, they could get a new cuddly toy to sleep with too.
Try to Keep Some Familiarity
It’s tough adjusting to anything new, so keeping some things the same will help. Make sure they can still have their favourite toy, blanket or night light with them in their new bed. Keep bedtime routines the same too, with timings and activities unchanged from using the cot. Don’t forget to give them lots of praise too and keep the new bed as a positive experience.
You might both be hesitant about the transition from a cot to a bed, but it won’t be long before you both love the new arrangement. Remember to make sure the room is safe, as well as a place where your toddler wants to sleep.
