There is no set age to tell you when to make the change, either your toddler will tell you, they are ready for their toddler bed or they will start climbing out of their crib.
Little ones generally make the switch any time between 18 months and 3 1/2 years old, The timing is different for every child. And you know your child best to take this next step.
Download the below chart to keep a track of your babies routine
Bedtime Chart< Download me
Tips to transition from a cot to a bed
As we said above there are no real pro tips, but some helpful hints to make the transition as smooth as possible
Time it right. If your toddler's life is already full of change — eg: new baby brother or sister, new school, weaning, potty training — wait before introducing the big-kid bed. This should be an exciting transition for everyone, not one that's overwhelming or scary.
Let your child get in on the action. To help your child feel excited about the change, let them choose new sheets and kid-friendly bedding, and encourage them to personalize the new bed with a few favorite stuffed animals.
We know you’re awesome parents & already taken measures to toddler-proof your home, but this is a good time to double check some areas. Are there any other safety precautions you should take in case your toddler does go adventuring during the night? You may want to consider blocking any stairwells with safety gates, locking windows and any doors that lead outside and double-checking to ensure your child can't get into any areas where cleaning products, medications or other hazardous materials are kept.
Don't change your nighttime routine. Put the bed in the same space where the crib was, if possible. And if the bath-books-bed formula helps to get your little one to sleep, stick with it. Mixing up the bedtime routine will just mix your child up.
For most kids, their new freedom to roam will be irresistible. It's up to you to reinforce bedtime rules. Request last-calls for water, stuffed toys and trips to the potty before the final tuck-in, and make sure your little one understands it's final.
That said, be prepared for your child to constantly pop out of bed for a drink of water, a snuggle with Mummy or some other escape-from-my-room excuse. Calmly and silently return your toddler to bed as many times as it takes. Keep it as boring as possible and theyll get the idea. For kids who don't, some parents put safety gates at the bedroom door. If your little one has already proved they can climb out of the cot, chances are a gate won't be much of an obstacle.
Praise your tot for practicing good bedtime habits. A helpful solution for controlling your child's roaming habits might be a sticker chart. Give one sticker for each night he stays in bed. By the end of the week, reward him with a special treat, like an extra story at bedtime or a favorite family outing. Remember, toddlers love pleasing you and doing things for themselves. Helping yours learn to love a big-kid bed should be a win-win situation.