Top tips for transitioning your toddler from cot to bed

1) Prepare your toddler for this new transition

• Have your toddler help choose their bedsheets and quilt in their favourite colours or characters
  
• Have them choose a new pair or pyjamas for their new "Big Kid Bed"
  
• Have a photo of you in the new bedroom and have your toddler bring in his or her cuddly blanket, toy or 'taggie' that they love hugging to feel safe & secure.  This way, they will know that they are not alone in their new bed

2) Be prepared to be patient

• Leaving their safe and secure cot can be pretty scary for children, so keep this in mind  
  
• Be prepared for your toddler to try every trick in the book to get out of going to their bed
  
• Most will get out of bed when you leave the room
  
• Stick to your usual bedtime routines - too much change can be too much!
  

3) Be consistent and persistent

• Your child will test your boundaries and utilise every trick in their little skill book to get out of going to bed and not have you leave them
  
• Be consistent and persistent with the way you handle having your child go to bed - make sure your partner is on board as well (this one is super dooper important)
  
• Set a date and don't look back - keep moving forward with your goal of getting your toddler into his or her own bed.
  
• Walk your child back to bed and remind them that it is "time for bed" and tuck them in.  
  
• This can happen up to 20 times to begin with - absolutely exhausting, but it will be worth it in the end.  When your child gets used to your persistence, when they feel secure in knowing that you will be persistent in sending them to bed, they will go to bed with less of a fuss.  Before you know it, your hard work will have paid off and you will have a few hours in the evening to yourself 
  

4) Positive Reinforcement is great!

• The key here, is to acknowledge that this transition is normal
  
• For positive bedtime efforts, reward your child, but don't overcompensate.  It is all about striking that balance. You might give them a "high five" or say "great job, mummy/daddy is so proud of you".
  
• Offer a date at the park or doing something that you enjoy doing together which is seen as something your child looks forward to. 
• Children don't need toys or gifts to praise their behaviour.  Positive reinforcement from you is their best reward.  After all, children look up to their parents and just want to make them happy.  Remember your children will always follow your lead!