Toddler Climbing Out of Cot: Safety & Next Steps | Parenting Hub
Climbing out of the cot is a safety issue, not just a sleep one. Here's how to assess and when to move to a bed.
Once your toddler can climb out of the cot, it's a safety issue — not just a sleep one. Here's how to slow it down, and when to move to a bed.
First — make the cot harder to escape
- Cot mattress at the lowest setting
- Sleeping bag with feet (limits leg over the rail) — for kids under 18 months still safe; older kids may need a different brand
- Remove anything to stand on: bumpers, large toys, pillow
- Move the cot away from windows, blinds, drawers, shelves
Respond calmly the first time
Walk in, no big reaction, back in cot, 'It's sleep time'. Repeat without negotiation. A dramatic response often makes it more interesting.
When it's time to move to a bed
- Climbing out repeatedly despite the steps above
- Toddler is over 90 cm tall — cot rails are no longer safe
- You're confident in toddler-proofing the room
Setting up a safe bed
- Low single bed or floor bed
- Bed rail to prevent falls
- Toddler-proof room: cord-free windows, anchored furniture, blind cords tied up, plug covers, no small choking items
- Stairgate at the door if the rest of the house isn't safe
When to seek help
- Fall from the cot — check for head injury (vomiting, drowsy, unequal pupils) and call 13 HEALTH or 000 if concerned
- Furniture not anchored — fix today (tipping is a leading toddler injury)
- Window without proper toddler safety lock — fix today
Common questions
What age is best to move to a bed?
Closer to 2.5–3 years if you can — older toddlers handle the change better. But safety wins: if they're climbing out repeatedly, move sooner with a safe set-up.