From Cot to Big Kid Bed: Signs Your Toddler Is Ready + Transition Tips

🧸 Has your little one been climbing out of the cot lately?

If you're starting to wonder whether it's time to swap the cot for a big kid bed, you're in the right place.

This transition is a big milestone for your child. And let’s be honest, for you too. There’s pride, excitement... and sometimes a little bit of panic. That’s completely normal. Change can feel big, but with the right tools (and a sprinkle of magic), it doesn’t have to feel hard.

So let’s take a moment together to look at the signs your toddler might be ready, and how to help make the move from cot to bed feel safe, special, and just right for your family.

🌟 Signs Your Toddler Might Be Ready for a Big Kid Bed

Every child is different, but most little ones make the transition between 18 months and 3½ years. You don’t need to rush it, but here are a few telltale signs that your toddler might be dropping somebig bedhints:

• They’ve figured out how to climb out of the cot
  (Cue the 2am hallway surprise...)

• They’re starting toilet training or already trained
  Night-time independence often means needing easier access to the bathroom.

• They’re asking for a big bed
  Especially if they’ve seen a sibling or friend make the move.

• They’re outgrowing the cot physically or emotionally
  Some kids start looking a bit squished, others just seem “over it”.

• There’s a new baby on the way
  And you need the cot back (a common and perfectly timed reason!).

🛏️ How to Make the Transition Smooth and Reassuring

For kids, it's more than just a bed change. It’s a shift in comfort, security, and confidence. The more supported your toddler feels, the easier the nights will go. Here’s what can help:

1. Involve Your Toddler in the Big Decision

Let them choose their new bedding or help you “build” their bed. It gives them ownership and makes it feel liketheirspecial space.

2. Keep Familiar Comforts Nearby

That much-loved blankie, favourite stuffed friend, and even your nightly bedtime story? Keep them going. Familiarity builds security.

3. Add a Gentle Night Light for Reassurance

Big transitions can stir up new bedtime fears. A soft, comforting glow helps little ones feel safe when the room feels a bit “too big” at night.

✅ Our Dream Lights and Dream Guardians  are specially designed to be the safest and cutest nighttime buddies. With adjustable brightness, soft colours, timer settings and characters your child will adore, they bring both function and a feeling of calm.

✨ Tip: Choose a night light in your child’s favourite colour or animal. Giving it a “job” (like guarding dreams or keeping watch) can make it even more comforting.

4. Set Boundaries... But Keep It Gentle

Yes, there may be extra visits after lights-out. That’s okay. Gently guide them back, and encourage self-settling with calm, consistent reassurance. Sleep specialists recommend red light for overnight use and this actually helps reduce nighttime wake-ups. It's scientifically proven that red light helps regulate melatonin which indeed prepares the body for deep sleep. All Duski lights have this red light feature. 

5. Expect a Few Hiccups (and Midnight Adventures)

It’s totally normal for toddlers to test out their new freedom. Stay calm, keep guiding them back, and trust that with time, itwillsettle.

💬 Real Mum Tip

"I introduced the Duski Fairy Night Light as her "Sleep Fairy" who would watch her and shoo away any monsters or bad dreams. And now, she always has her sleep fairy switched on and start watching her before she goes to sleep. Her 2 am wake up calls have now disappeared and she has learned how to fall back asleep on her own, knowing her sleep fairy is watching over her" - Diannah, Vic. 

Isn’t that beautiful? Sometimes it just takes one little ritual to shift bedtime from scary to safe.

🌙 Final Thoughts: A Big Step Made a Little Softer

Moving from cot to big kid bed is a beautiful step towards independence. It doesn’t need to feel rushed or stressful. With love, patience, and a comforting routine, your toddler will settle into their new space with confidence.

And if you’re looking for a night light that blends seamlessly into your new bedtime routine, we’ve got something truly special. All our lights are child-safe, dimmable, and designed right here in Australia - made with love, and made for families.

You're doing beautifully, Mum. And remember, even the biggest transitions are just a collection of tiny, loving moments.