Toddler Beds: How To Help Your Child Transition From A Cot

Key summary

You can move your toddler into a bed if they’ve outgrown their cot and can climb out, if they’re toilet training and need to use the bathroom or if you have another baby on the way and need the cot.
Making the transition a positive experience is crucial.
Toddler bed options include convertible cribs that transform into beds, low-to-the-ground floor beds, and toddler beds with side rails.
If your toddler repeatedly gets out of their new bed, it's important to address the underlying reasons.

The toddler years are full of exciting milestones, and one of them includes the day they’re ready to move from their baby cot to a bed. It signals that your toddler is growing into a fully fledged child who’s becoming more independent. They’re not a baby anymore!

Many kids graduate from their cot to a bed when a sibling is on the way, or when they start scaling the cot (crib) rails. Some simply demand to move into a ‘big-kid bed’. The toddler-bed transition can’t just be sprung on your little one, however; they may need help settling in.

Wondering how and when to move your toddler to a bed, or an intermediary toddler bed? Follow these expert tips for the big move for the whole family.

What age can my child move to a toddler bed?

Most toddlers transition from a cot to a bed between 2 and 3½ years of age, although some may be ready earlier depending on their development.
Your child may be ready to move to a toddler bed if they've outgrown their cot, are able to climb out safely, or are toilet training and need easy access to the bathroom. Some families also make the transition when they're preparing the cot for a new baby.
There's no "perfect" age to make the switch - it's important to choose a time when both you and your toddler are ready. Making the transition gradually and keeping bedtime routines familiar can help your child adjust to their new bed with confidence.

Different types of toddler beds

When it comes to toddler beds, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. You can choose a dedicated toddler bed that's lower to the ground for easy access and often includes side rails to help reduce the risk of falls. Alternatively, a single bed can be a great long-term option that will grow with your child.
If you're concerned about your toddler falling out of bed, it's perfectly fine to start with the mattress on the floor until they're more confident. Just make sure the sleep space is clear of soft toys, bean bags, cords and clutter.
If you choose a single bed, ensure the mattress fits snugly within the bed frame and that there are no gaps where your child could become trapped. If needed, you can also use a securely fitted bed rail while your toddler adjusts to their new bed.
There's no need to rush introducing a pillow. When you do decide your toddler is ready, choose a low-profile pillow that's appropriate for their age and size.

How can I ease the transition from cot to bed?

Avoid introducing your child to their toddler bed during other times of transition; for example, when you’re moving house, toilet training them or bringing a new baby home. It’s better to shift your toddler from cot to bed either a few months before or after the newborn’s arrival, so they don’t resent their sibling for ‘stealing’ the cot.

Consider letting your child choose their own cute bed linen and help you set up their new bed and arrange their favourite toys on it. Try to stick to their usual bedtime routine and be patient if your toddler keeps ‘escaping’ their new bed.

How to manage toddlers who keep getting out of bed

If your little one is struggling to stay in bed, a calm and consistent approach can help. Rather than returning them to bed with lots of attention, gently guide them back, reassure them, and encourage them to settle independently.
If your child is awake but not distressed, give them the opportunity to self-settle before stepping in. Keep interactions brief, calm and predictable, avoiding lengthy conversations or playtime, so they learn that bedtime is for sleeping.
It's normal for toddlers to test boundaries during this transition. Stay patient and consistent with your bedtime routine, and respond in the same calm way each time they get out of bed. Over time, they'll learn what to expect and feel more confident settling themselves to sleep.

Here are some more strategies for getting your toddler to sleep in their own bed.

1. Double-check their needs

Check if your toddler has enough water, is at a comfortable temperature and if they need to use the toilet. Give them one last cuddle. Remind them that if they truly need something, like help going to the toilet, or if they feel sick or have a nightmare, it’s okay to call for you.

2. Acknowledge how they feel and calmly return them to bed

Say something like, “It seems you’re having trouble falling asleep.” Rather than get angry, remain neutral about the situation and put them back in bed. Perhaps check on your toddler a few minutes later. Encourage them by saying, “You look nice and sleepy now. Good night, I love you.”

3. Address separation anxiety

Explain that you’re close by and you’ll see them in the morning. If your toddler appears to be struggling with separation anxiety for two weeks or more, chat to your GP.

4. Figure out if your toddler is actually tired

If it’s consistently taking your child longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep, their bedtime may be too early, they may be waking too late in the morning, or their day naps may be too long. Make any changes gradually.

5. Set expectations

Remind your child that it’s time to settle down and spend some quiet time in bed. You can let them know that once they’re quiet, you’ll come back and check on them.

6. Start a countdown

Always prepare your little one for sleep time. Remind them it’s nearly bedtime 30 minutes or so before the bedtime routine begins, so they can start to wind down.

7. Say ‘goodnight’ to everything

Explain that it’s time for everything to go to sleep; saying goodnight to their toothbrush, the moon and so on could help your toddler understand that bedtime means sleep time.

8. Reward good behaviour

If you do go back to check and they’ve settled down, let your child know they’re doing a great job. If they fall asleep without any issues, praise them the next morning for how well they did last night.

How to make the house safe for toddlers at night

You might create a Pinterest-worthy toddler's bedroom, but it's just as important to make the area around the bed as safe as possible. Keep the space around the bed free of hard furniture, such as bedside tables, that your toddler could fall onto. Consider placing a soft rug or play mat next to the bed to help cushion any tumbles.
Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairways if needed, and ensure your toddler can't access windows. Keep blind and curtain cords well out of reach to reduce the risk of entanglement, and store medicines, cleaning products and other hazardous items securely in locked cupboards.
Lift your toddler's mattress regularly and allow the area underneath to air out. Cleaning beneath the bed can also help prevent dust, mould and mildew from building up.