When the time comes to move your child into their first proper bed it can be a bit stressful.  Little ones are creatures of habit and anything new can be viewed with suspicion.  It’s almost enough to put you off attempting it in the first place.  But you will be glad when you successfully transition your child into a new bed.

A Happy Beds survey found on average a child will move from a cot to a toddler bed at 2 years and one month old.  Whilst they move to a big bed when they are four years and three months.  I think I found the hardest move was from the cot to the toddler bed.  When those sides came down it meant escape was possible.  We lost count of the number of times the boys would try and leave their bed in the night.  I probably would have lasted a little bit longer accept my eldest son had started to try and climb out of his cot.

Persevere

It wasn’t an easy time and we were naturally exhausted.  But the key was not to give in.  Persevere and eventually you will get them into a good routine again.  Once they realize you mean business they will (hopefully) get used to staying in bed.  We put up a safety gate on their room to make sure they wouldn’t go any further!  Then kept putting them back in bed until they got too tired and fell asleep.

Make It Exciting

Maybe pick out some new bedding together or a new soft toy for them to cuddle at night.  You can go one further and choose a bed that will really wow.  I guess it all depends on your budget.  Just do something that will make them realize the transition to a new bed is something to look forward too.  A celebration of sorts!

Tell Them How Proud You All Are

Keep reminding them how proud you are of them too.  Take a photo of them in their new bed and say its to show their grandparents.  Everyone in the family can then make a fuss of them and how well they are doing.

Work on Your Bedtime Routine

It might help to go back to basics, especially if you have stopped sticking to a good bedtime routine.  Go back to a bath and book before bed, make sure there is enough time for the all-important goodnight cuddles and kisses.  Try and ensure your little one is calm and quiet before they go to bed.  It helps them feel safe.  This article featuring Super Nanny Jo Frost with top tips to keep your child in bed is informative.

Think About the Bedroom Layout

We kept most of their toys in the playroom downstairs.  That way they didn’t feel the need to get up and play when it was time to go to sleep.  The bedroom had soft toys for sleeping and plenty of books instead.  We also had a night light which gave them a sense of security, I can recommend the LUMIE Bedbug.  Any toys in their room were hidden out of sight before sleep time, in the wardrobe or drawers.

Lots of Fresh Air

Make sure they have had plenty of time outdoors on the day you make the change.  Fresh air helps children sleep so they will be less inclined to fight the change.

Hopefully these suggestions will help you successfully transition your child into a new bed.