Moving your child from a cot to a bed can be a challenging experience for both parents and children. However, with a few simple tips, the transition can be made smoothly and without any anxiety.
Tip #1
Involve your child in the process of sourcing their new big kids bed. Take your child shopping with you and let them view different bed and bedroom furniture options. However, keep the options limited to 1-2 to avoid confusion. By involving them in the process, they will feel excited and anticipate the arrival of their new kids' bed. Discuss the purchase and the shopping experience until it arrives to build excitement and anticipation in your child.
Tip #2
When transitioning to a new bedroom, it's important to keep a few of their current belongings to maintain consistency and ensure a smoother transition. Keeping key pieces such as their favourite toy, comforting night light, or mobile can remind them that they are still in a familiar environment and keep them comforted. To avoid confusion, limit the number of options and ask them what they would like to keep. A baby teddy is always a great choice and can help soothe any anxiety they may have about the move.
Tip #3
Reward your child for this big brave move from cot to bed. Throw a "big bed party" to celebrate their transition from a baby to a big kid. This can be an emotional time for both the parent and the child, as the era of being a "baby" is over. However, keeping the celebration positive and joyful can make the most of this transition.
Tip #4
Purchase something simple and stylish. When buying children’s furniture, it's important to think about the long-term. Ask yourself if you can imagine your child using this item when they're 2 years old or 22 years old. To avoid a major changeover, look for enduring design and quality-built furniture. Our philosophy is that you should be able to purchase a kid’s bed, for instance, that is built to last that, with a few dress changes can transition your child throughout their growing year. Further, if you also select a timeless and versatile design, you'll get more value for your money and your child will have a stylish room that can grow with them.
Tip #5
Purchase Quality Furniture for Kids. Kids are energetic and love to jump on beds, even though it's a big no-no in our house (but I still know it happens). While high-quality furniture may cost more initially, it will pay off in the long run as you won't have to replace it down the line. When purchasing, look for a good warranty that covers any structural breakdown within a specific period. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to teach your kids about responsible purchasing and the importance of caring for the environment.
Investing in long-term key pieces such as a bed, bedside table, and chest of drawers can create a stable environment for your child to grow up in. While they can update their bedding, walls, and floors to suit their age and changing needs, having durable and sturdy furniture can provide a retreat at the end of a hard day.
Tip #6
Talk it up. The transition from baby to big boy/girl is a significant milestone for your child, and it's important to recognize the impact it may have on them. You can use a puppet or a children's book on this subject to help you discuss it with your child. You'll be surprised at what your child might share with a puppet that they might not normally share with you. This approach worked wonders for me!
Tip #7
Shopping for Fun Items. This tip is all about buying fun items like kids bedding, cushions, lamps, lights, artwork, and rugs for the floor. It's a great opportunity to encourage your kids' personalities to shine, especially if they didn't have a say in choosing their bed/furniture.
Talk to your child about the colour scheme and include their favourite colour or a theme, like animals or ballerinas, that they would like to have. This will give you a framework to design your room around.
It's a good idea to make this a separate outing from buying the furniture, as trying to do both at the same time may be too overwhelming for toddlers.
