How to Move a Toddler From a Cot to a Bed

In a study of 136 cultures, anthropologist John Whiting found that the majority of babies slept with the mother rather than in separate rooms. Cribs were not created until the 1800s, when wealthier families had nannies and could afford to have separate bedrooms for their children. When a child is 18 months to 3 years old, you might decide to move her from a cot or crib to her own bed. The transition can be gentle by keeping the same routines as when she was in her crib.

• 1

  Find the right toddler bed for your child. A toddler bed is lower to the ground and has guardrails to prevent him from falling out. A shopping trip with your child will make the experience new and exciting.

• 2

  Ask yourself if your child is ready. If she has started potty training and is climbing out of her crib, these are signs for a change. Some children might ask for a new big child bed, and others grow too tall, over 3 feet, to stay in their cribs.

• 3

  Place the new bed in your child's room. Avoid a stressful switch, by a gradual change. Read books in the new bed or have your child nap in the toddler bed at first.

• 4

  Keep your same bedtime routine. Give him a bath and read a book, and put your child into his new toddler bed. Giving him his same soother, pacifier or toy, and he should transition smoothly.

• 5

  Give your child extra time and attention during the move, and keep the crib until she feels comfortable with her new bed. You want her to be relaxed and feel secure in the change.