Moving from cot to 'Big Kid' bed: Room prep checklist

Moving your child from their cot to a ‘big kid’ bed is a huge step for both of you. It's an exciting and a little scary parenting moment.

You may be wondering if your toddler is truly ready. Perhaps they've been climbing out of their cot, or they keep asking for a ‘big bed’ like an older brother or sister. These are good clues that it might be time for a change.

Moving to a new bed doesn't always go perfectly on the first try. Some kids will love their new bed right away, but others need time to get used to it. That's normal. Every child is different, and there's no need to rush.

It's all about staying calm. If you set up the room correctly and maintain a good attitude, this major change can be a happy time for everyone. Let's review everything you need to know to prepare your child's room for this transition.

Timing the Transition Right

It's tough to know the right time to move your child from a crib to a big bed. Most kids make this switch between 18 months and 3 years old, but each child is different.
Here are some clear signs your child might be ready for a ‘big kid’ bed:

• They're climbing out of their crib (this is a major safety concern).
• They ask for a ‘big bed’ like yours.
• They look cramped or uncomfortable in their crib.
• They're potty training and need to get up to use the bathroom at night.
• They're about 35 inches tall.

If your child is climbing out of their crib, it's safer to move them to a bed, even if you hadn't planned on it yet. When you do, make sure their room is very secure and try to stick to their usual routines.

Safety First: Childproofing the New Sleep Space

Once your child can get out of bed on their own, they have access to their whole room. This means you need to make sure every corner is safe. Let's go through each area step by step.

1. Bed rails and guards: These are your first line of defence. These help prevent your child from rolling out of bed while they sleep. 
2. Secure all furniture to the walls: Toddlers love to climb, and heavy furniture can tip over easily. Use furniture straps or wall anchors - they're cheap and could save your child's life.
3. Cover electrical outlets and hide cords: Use outlet covers and cord organisers to keep everything out of reach. Even if your child hasn't shown interest in outlets before, curiosity can strike at any time.
4. Create a clear, safe path to the bathroom: Remove any toys, clothes, or furniture that could cause tripping hazards in the dark. Consider a small nightlight to help them see in the dark.
5. Do a thorough sweep for small objects: Get down on your hands and knees and look at the room from your child's eye level. Remove anything smaller than a toilet paper roll.

Choose the Right Bed and Setup

Choosing a toddler bed can seem tough because there are so many kinds. What matters most is picking one that fits your room, your wallet, and what your child needs. Let's look at the main types you can choose from.

Toddler beds vs. twin beds

Toddler beds are closer to the floor, which is safer for little ones, and they use the same size mattress as a crib, so you might already have one.
Twin beds will last much longer because your child won't outgrow them as quickly. However, they're taller and take up more space in the room.

Choose a firm, supportive mattress

If you're using a new twin mattress, ensure it's designed for children and not too soft. A mattress that's too soft can be unsafe for toddlers.

Keep the bed low to the ground

If you choose a twin bed, avoid high beds or bunk beds at this age. Your toddler should be able to sit on the edge with their feet touching or almost touching the floor.

Position the bed away from windows and furniture

Place the bed against a wall if possible - this provides your child with a sense of security and prevents them from rolling out onto one side.

Room Environment Adjustments

Since the bed's all set, let's focus on the room. Adjusting the lighting, temperature, and noise can help your child sleep better and feel cosy in their new space.

• Add gentle lighting options: A small nightlight helps them see if they need to get up for the bathroom, and a bedside lamp they can reach lets them feel more in control.
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature: Maintain a temperature between 65°F and 70°F. Toddlers move around more in a big bed, so they might get warmer or cooler than they did in their cot. Ensure they can easily add or remove a blanket as needed.
• Minimise noise disruptions: A white noise machine or soft background sound can help mask household noises that might wake your child.
  

Involve Your Child in the Process

To make moving to a new bed easy for your child, get them excited about it! You don't have to let them decide everything, but if you give them a few choices, they'll feel important and grown-up.

• Take them shopping for new bedding and let them pick between two or three options you've already chosen. This way, they feel involved, but you still control the final decision.
• Let them help set up their room by carrying light items, arranging stuffed animals, or choosing where to put their favourite books. Even small tasks make them feel like they're part of the process.
• Make it feel like a big achievement by talking about how they're becoming such a big kid. Use positive, exciting language like ‘your special big bed’ or 'your grown-up room.

You may also like to read: Toddler bed safety checklist

Final Thoughts

Getting your child into a big bed is a massive deal for the whole family! Don't worry if some nights are perfect and others are a bit rough; that's normal. The main thing is to be patient with your little one and yourself while you all adjust. If you prepare well and show lots of love, this exciting moment will become a happy memory you'll always cherish.