Toddler - tips for moving to a bed

Making the transition to a bed

Tips to help your child move from a cot to a bed:

  • Forewarn her of the move. On the whole, toddlers are not known for their flexibility - they find reassurance in familiarity - so surprising her with a change as big as this, is likely to go badly unless she has had time to get used to the idea first.
  • Tell your child that moving into a bed is exciting because now that she's getting bigger and isn't a baby any more, she needs a 'big bed' just like mum and dad.
  • Your toddler may enjoy helping you to choose new bedding and then putting it on the bed.
  • Your toddler may find reassurance in moving her cot bedding into her new bed. Sure, it may not fit properly but at least she'll be happy.
  • If space allows it, you may like to set up the new bed in your child's bedroom while the cot is still there, so she can lie and play on the bed without any pressure to sleep in it. Some children begin taking naps during the day in their big bed whilst returning to their cot at night.
  • Have quiet time together while your toddler is in her new bed before you say good-night. Perhaps read a book together.
  • Follow your usual bedtime routine, but consider using a night light or leaving a light on outside her bedroom, while she adjusts to life in her new bed.
  • Once you've removed the cot from her bedroom, try to place the bed in the same position. She'll find it easier to settle back to sleep in the night if she's in the same position in her bedroom.
  • Let her snuggle in, say goodnight and leave. Don't linger in her bedroom and make the move into something bigger than it is, or you may make her worried about being left alone in her bed.


If your child's not ready to make the change, don't push it. Try leaving the bed set up, while she continues to sleep in her cot. Seeing the bed there every day will make her more comfortable and the transition easier.

This article was written by Ella Walsh for Kidspot. Sources include SA Government's Parenting and Child Health and Raising Children's Network.

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