Getting Used to a High Bed: How to Make the Transition

Most toddlers make the transition to a high bed sometime between the ages of 18 months and three years. However, there is no specific time your toddler needs to move to their own kids bed; it is different for every child and family. Most parents decide it is time to get their youngster used to a high bed when one of the following occurs:

Although as parents we want the transition to a high bed to be as easy as possible for our child, sleeping in a new and different bed is not something many children adapt to easily. Getting used to a high bed can take time but you can help your child adjust by taking a few simple steps.

Make the Transition as Easy as Possible

Place the new high bed in the spot where the cot used to
sit. If possible, use some of the same bedding, such as
the blanket used in their cot. Doing so can soothe your child, as they have
something in their new bed with which they are familiar. Letting them sleep
with a favourite toy or stuffed animal also helps.

If your toddler is old enough and has the interest, take
them to choose the new bed and bedding. Alternatively, many parents throw a
Big Bed party to celebrate the move to a high bed. You can even invite
grandparents, other relatives, and few of your child’s friends.

Make Sure They Feel Safe

Your child is used to having sides on the bed to catch them
if they roll around at night. Therefore, they may be fearful of sleeping in a
bed without sides. If necessary, install side rails during the transition
period. Also, make sure there is a night light to assist your toddler when
night time potty visits are necessary.

Maintain Routine

One way to ease the transition from a cot to a high bed is
to maintain the regular
bedtime routine. It helps a toddler to know that everything except for the
bed size will be remaining the same. With patience, love, and some preparation,
you can get your youngster used to a high bed without a great deal of
difficulty.

If the reason for moving your child to a high bed is to make
room for a new baby, make sure you introduce your toddler to the new bed at
least four to six weeks before the due date. If you wish, you can wait until
six to eight weeks after the baby is born or whenever the infant is ready for
the cot.

After a few weeks, if your toddler is still struggling to
feel comfortable with his new bed, they may not be ready for the move to the
high bed. If you cannot move them back to the cot, it sometimes works to have
them sleep on the high bed mattress on the floor as a transitional method.