Waking up
Waking up

He wakes confused and crying in the night since the cot went, is this normal?

J Asked by Joel

A few nights into the floor bed he's waking around midnight crying and seems disoriented.

19–24m Floor / low bed
Verified answer

Hi Joel, A few unsettled nights after moving from a cot to a floor bed can be quite normal. He has gone from waking in a very familiar enclosed space to something that looks and feels quite different, so he may briefly seem confused when he wakes. For now, keep things as familiar as possible. Use the same bedtime routine and comfort items, and if he wakes, offer calm reassurance in his new bed with minimal light and conversation. Something simple like, “You’re in your new bed, it’s still nighttime, you’re safe,” can help. Spending some relaxed time playing or reading on the bed during the day can also make the space feel more familiar. One other thing to consider is night terrors. If he seems very confused rather than properly awake, particularly in the first third of the night, this could be what you are seeing. They often end as quickly as they begin, commonly within around 5 to 10 minutes. Your main job is to stay nearby and keep him safe rather than trying to wake him or stop the episode. If the episodes become frequent or more intense, he seems in pain, or you notice unusual movements, snoring or breathing changes, speak to your GP or health visitor rather than assuming it is simply the bed transition. I hope that helps!

Gemma Coe, Child sleep specialist
Gemma CoeBSc, PGCE, PGDip, MPH
Child sleep specialist · Reviewed Aug 2026

Reviewed by Gemma Coe, child sleep specialist — general guidance, not a substitute for your GP or health visitor.

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