Navigating the big bed transition at 26 months

For you

• 💛A move from cot to bed depends on safety, not being 26 months old: consider it if your child can climb out or has reached the cot manufacturer’s limits. Use a suitable low bed and secure the room, including anchored furniture, stair gates and cords kept out of reach.
• 🌿If you need a break away from your child, ask another trusted adult to take over supervision first. If no one can take over, stay nearby and keep watching your child while you pause and breathe.
• 🤝If you have a partner or other caregivers, collaborate on a consistent bedtime routine so that the experience remains predictable for your toddler, regardless of who is putting them to bed. Sharing these duties can help ensure you both get a chance to rest.

For your baby

• 🧸At 26 months, your toddler is refining their motor skills and may enjoy large, chunky blocks or soft, oversized items during play. Try setting up a 'construction station' with large cardboard boxes or soft foam shapes that they can safely stack or arrange.
• 💤When moving to a bed, keep the sleep environment simple and consistent with the cot setup to provide comfort. You might consider using a toddler rail or placing the mattress on the floor initially to minimize the risk of falls.
• 🗣️If you notice your toddler suddenly losing a skill they previously displayed, or if any part of their development is worrying you, reach out to your health visitor or doctor. They are there to support you and your family through these transitions.

🏆 Milestones

At 26 months, toddlers often show increased independence in their physical movements and are becoming more adept at participating in daily routines. They may be starting to follow multi-step directions, assert their preferences more clearly, and engage in more complex imaginative play, though individual timelines vary significantly.