Cot to Toddler Bed Transition | When to Move & How to Do It

When to move your toddler from cot to bed, how to make the transition safe and stick, and what to do about repeated getting-out.

Later is generally better. Most Australian sleep experts suggest waiting until 2.5–3.5 years to move from cot to bed, so your child can understand and follow the 'stay in bed' rule. The main reason to move earlier is safety — a toddler who's genuinely climbing out of the cot.

When to make the move

Safety-proofing the room

Choosing the right bed

How to introduce the new bed

What to do when they keep getting out

Middle-of-the-night wandering

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