Is my toddler ready for a junior bed?

Is my toddler ready for a junior bed?

It can feel like every day is packed with new milestones for toddlers. They love their newfound independence, but how do you know when they’re ready for the next step and when it’s better to wait? This is a common question asked by new parents, especially when it comes to toddlers, cots and the move to big kid beds. 

So, what are the signs your toddler might be ready (or not quite there yet) when every child is so different? How do you make the switch as seamless as possible? And why are convertible cots such a game changer for everyone involved? Join us as we answer each of these important questions so you can feel empowered to make decisions for your little one. 


Housekeeping 

First things first, it’s important to understand that every child (even between siblings) is different, and the best time for them to move to a junior bed can be dependent on a range of things. While some toddlers will be more than ready by two, trying their very best to climb to ‘freedom’, others will do better by waiting a little bit longer. As long as your child is safe and comfortable when they sleep, you’re doing well.  

 

BabyRest cots are designed to seamlessly transition from bassinet, to cot to junior bed

 

Green flags for moving to a junior bed 

  1. Climbing out of the cot:
    If your little one has mastered the art of escaping from their cot, it's a clear indication that they'll be safer in a junior bed. a lower rail - like our clever 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 convertible cot range - offer a safer alternative to prevent falls.
  2. Too tall for the cot:
    When your child's chest is visible above the cot railing (usually when they’re around 90 cm tall) while standing, it may be time to consider transitioning to a junior bed. Even if they aren’t trying to escape, they have outgrown the cot safety-wise.

  3. Preferring other sleep spaces:
    If your toddler shows reluctance or resistance towards sleeping in their cot, preferring alternative sleeping arrangements, it could be a sign that they're ready for a change. Bedtime should be a peaceful and enjoyable experience for both parent and child.

  4. Verbal Cues:
    Listen to your child's cues. If they express interest in having a ‘big kid bed’ like their siblings or peers, it's a positive indication that they could be ready for the transition. Keep warming them up to the idea and start preparing for the switch.

  5. Toilet training:
    Transitioning to a junior bed can be helpful when your little one is toilet trained by allowing them easy access to the potty during the night. However, ensure they are comfortable with toilet training before introducing a new sleeping arrangement - more than one big thing at a time be overwhelming for them.

  

Red flags for moving to a junior bed 

  1. Multiple big life changes:
    If your child is undergoing significant life changes such as starting childcare, weaning off a dummy, or moving house, it may be wise to delay the transition to a junior bed. Allow them time to adjust to one change at a time before introducing another.
  2. Repeated resistance:
    Toddlers change their minds like there’s no tomorrow, but if your child expresses repeated resistance or discomfort at the idea of transitioning to a junior bed, respect their feelings and delay the transition until they feel more comfortable. Give them time to warm to the idea and ask them questions to understand why they might be feeling this way.
  3. Need for supervision:
    If your child still requires close supervision throughout the night or has a tendency to wander around unsupervised, delaying the transition to a junior bed might be better once they’re a tad older.

  4. Medical advice:
    If your pediatrician recommends delaying the transition for health, behavioural or developmental reasons, it's always better to heed their advice. Holding off for a little while will likely result in a more positive experience for both you and your toddler. Remember, there’s no rush!

 

The BabyRest Amara offers 4-in-1 cot to junior bed potential

 

How to make the big switch to a toddler bed 

  1. Choose the right bed:
    Opt for a bed that meets your child's needs, whether it's a standard single bed with a rail or a junior bed designed specifically for toddlers. Our convertible cots offer a seamless transition from bassinet to cot to junior bed, ensuring comfort and familiarity for your child every step of the way. Afterall, the change is less intimidating if it’s the same cot they’ve slept in the whole lives, just looking a little bit different!
  2. Ease into it:
    Introduce the new bed gradually by allowing your child to practice napping in it before transitioning to nighttime sleep. This familiarises them with the new sleeping arrangement and prepares them for longer stretches in the bed.

  3. Maintain consistency:
    Consistency is key! Keep bedtime routines consistent to provide a sense of security and familiarity for your child during the transition period. If they normally have dinner, followed by bathtime and story-time, now is not the time to change things up.
  4. Child-proof the room:
    Ensure the bedroom is child-proofed to prevent accidents and injuries. Secure furniture, cover electrical outlets, and install safety gates if necessary to create a safe sleeping environment for your toddler.

    Read 10 tips to make your nursery safer → 
  5. Make it exciting:
    Involve your child in the process by allowing them to choose bedding or a special stuffed animal for their new bed. Use positive language and encouragement to build excitement and enthusiasm for the transition.

  6. Set clear expectations:
    Establish clear guidelines for staying in bed at night and reinforce positive behaviour with rewards or praise. 

  7. Lead by example:
    Show your child that sleeping in their own bed is a normal part of growing up by sharing stories or books about bedtime routines and ‘big kid beds’. Remind them that mum and dad, grandparents and older siblings all sleep in their own beds at night.

 

 

The BabyRest Kaya with the matching Junior bed rail

 

Why BabyRest's convertible cots are ideal for toddlers 

At BabyRest, we understand the importance of providing parents with practical solutions that support their child's growth and development. With our 3-in-1 functionality cots (and 4-in-1 Amara cot), transitioning to a junior bed is a seamless and stress-free process, allowing your child to sleep soundly and securely night after night. 

With BabyRest's convertible cots, switching between bassinet mode, cot mode and junior bed mode is a breeze. By replacing the cot's sides with a junior bed rail, you can transform your child's familiar sleeping space into a comfortable and secure junior bed. This gradual transition significantly minimises disruptions and helps ease your child into their new bed with confidence. 

In addition to their innovative design, all BabyRest's cots are crafted with safety and durability in mind, providing parents with peace of mind knowing your child is sleeping in a secure and comfortable environment. 

 

The BabyRest Kaya in cot mode

 

Ultimately, making the move to a junior bed is a significant milestone in your child's development, signalling their growing independence and abilities. By recognising their signs of readiness, choosing the right bed and implementing tips and tricks to make the process smoother, this can be a really positive and exciting experience for both you and your child. 

If you’ve found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with fellow parents embarking on the exciting journey of transitioning their toddlers to junior beds. Together, we can support and empower each other as we navigate parenthood and toddlerdom. 

BabyRest has a team of passionate expert representatives. Get in touch with any questions about your baby and toddler essentials.   

  
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