When should I move my toddler from cot to bed?

Question

So much conflicting advice out there. Some people say 18 months, others say wait till 3. Mine's 20 months and perfectly happy in the cot but I keep worrying I'll leave it too late. How did you all know it was time?

Claire · Answer

We hung on until nearly 3 and I'm glad we did. That bit of extra self control made a big difference to whether she'd actually stay put once the sides were off. Nobody gives you a prize for doing it early. Unless they're climbing out or you need the cot for a new baby, later is usually the easier ride.

Danny · Answer

Ours basically told us at about two and a half, kept trying to climb into his cousin's bed every time we visited. We took the hint and it went really smoothly. If yours is happy in the cot I honestly wouldn't rush it over a number.

Gita · Answer

We moved at 2 on the dot and regretted it, way too early for ours. She just treated the whole thing as a game and in the end we put the cot back for a couple of months. Second go at nearly 3 was night and day. If in doubt, wait.