Early childhood is filled with several significant developmental and stage milestones. One is transitioning from a cot to a single-mattress layout. But a new bed can also mean new rules, new routines, and potentially, new fears. To make the transition easier and smoother for you and your little one, you need to follow a handful of steps throughout the process.
When to Make the Switch
Since every child is different, there’s no right time for a child to move from a toddler to a single bed. However, some common signs indicate it might be time for the transition. For instance, if your little one seems uncomfortable or cramped in their toddler bed, maybe it’s time to consider investing in a new one with a comfy and growth-supporting single mattress.
Next, as your kid’s mobility improves they may start to climb out of their current bed. In this case, maybe it’s time to move to a safer, larger, and more comfortable option since it allows your kid to have plenty of space to move around and stretch their legs.
Furthermore, it’s a well-known fact that toddlers tend to imitate peers and older children. If your little one has seen where older siblings and friends sleep, they may show interest in transitioning to a similar environment.
Another point to be mindful of is whether your child can fall asleep independently. Although you can teach and support your little one in their journey to fall asleep on their own, for many it’s something that comes naturally like walking and chewing.
Once they’re able to get themselves to sleep, transitioning to a bigger bed will go more smoothly and quickly. They can get back to sleep on their own and can get back to sleep when they awake during the night without your help.
Major Factors to Consider
Opting for a well-designed single mattress for a quickly developing toddler is a minor action that can greatly influence their overall comfort, well-being, and bedtime routines. Kids’ mattresses should be comfortable yet firm enough to provide adequate support for their developing bones and muscles. It also evenly distributes their weight, minimising pressure points and discomfort. When a child is comfortable, they’re more likely to go to sleep and stay asleep for longer.
Let’s face it, little ones can be tough on their mattresses, whether it’s through bouncing, jumping, or occasional accidents. A long-lasting mattress is less likely to deteriorate quickly, which means your little one can have a cosy sleeping surface throughout their growth. On that note, you can opt for a durable innerspring mattress that can withstand the movements of an active child while providing excellent support.
Toddlers are not the soundest of sleepers. They tend to move around a lot during the night, changing various positions while sleeping. This is why you want to invest in a single-size mattress with good edge support so your child will be less likely to roll off the bed, reducing the risk of injury.
Dust mite allergy is common among young children. If your little one has an allergy to dust mites, it is important to select a hypoallergenic mattress that is specially designed to be resistant to dust mites and mould. Organic or natural materials, for instance, can be a good choice if you’re concerned about allergens or chemicals. They provide a clean and healthy sleeping environment for your little one.
Another crucial factor to consider is breathability. Models that have excellent air circulation can create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment by minimising the chances of overheating. Maintaining an optimal sleeping temperature can contribute to uninterrupted and more comfortable sleep. Therefore you want to choose a mattress with good airflow and breathability to help regulate your toddler’s body temperature, especially if they tend to get too hot during sleep.
Picking the right mattress is just a piece of the puzzle. You also need to pay attention to the frame. Selecting a low-profile option that makes it easier for your child to get in and out should be a top priority. Low-profile models are also safer because they sit so close to the floor. So, even if your child does roll and fall out onto the ground, you’re far less likely to get hurt.
Speaking of safety, you can buy and fit some bed guards to prevent young children from rolling out. You can find options in different materials and sizes to suit different layouts, with numerous designs to suit your child’s room décor.
Aside from that, you’ll also want to consider the size and layout of the room the single bed will occupy. Measure carefully to make sure the model you select will fit comfortably in the designated area, leaving enough space for play and other furniture. This will give them a sense of ownership over their own space and allow for easy movement around the room.
