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Transitioning your baby to their own room is a big step, both for you and your little one. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the factors involved can help you make a decision that feels right. In this blog, we’ll discuss when the ideal time might be and how to do the transition.
When is the right time?
First things first
Are you ready? This is the most crucial step. Only move your little one into their own room when it feels right for both of you. Trust your instincts, and don’t feel pressured by external expectations. It’s perfectly fine to wait until you feel fully prepared—there’s no rush. The right time is when it feels right for you and your baby. Some questions to ask yourself if you're contemplating it.
Do you feel nervous about making this change? Sometimes the only reason for holding back might be your own readiness, even if your baby is ready. If the change is something that concerns you, it might be worth waiting if your baby’s sleep is going well.
How is your sleep? Consider whether having your baby sleep in their own room could benefit you. Do you feel sleep-deprived? Maybe this transition might help you physically and mentally.
How is their sleep? If your baby is struggling with their sleep, consider if sharing a room with you might be a factor. Think about whether having their own sleep space could reduce distractions and improve their sleep. Are you possibly reinforcing wake-ups by being so close to them?
While every family is different, many experts recommend considering the transition around six months of age. However, some families find success at an earlier or much later age, depending on their baby’s sleep patterns and family dynamics.
Will they sleep better?
Many parents wonder if their baby will sleep better once moved to their own room. The answer varies. Some babies may sleep more soundly without the disruptions of their parents' movements and noises, while others may need time to adjust to the change.
It also depends on their current sleep situation. For instance, a baby who is used to co-sleeping might find the transition more difficult compared to a baby who sleeps in a cot or bassinet in the same room.
From co-sleeping to their own sleep space
If you co-sleep, the transition to having your baby sleep in their own room may be more challenging. Your baby is use to your presence throughout their entire sleep, from falling asleep to waking up. Moving to their own space can take time.
The key is to find a balance between allowing your baby the space to learn to sleep independently and remaining responsive to their needs during this adjustment period.
From basinet to their own sleep space
The transition might be easier if your baby is already use to sleeping on their own, as it just a matter of putting some distance between you. Consider starting by moving their bassinet into their own room and observing how they respond. If they adjust well, you can then transition them to a cot in their room. Alternatively, you can make the switch all at once by placing them directly into a cot in their room.
The main problem you might encounter with this transition is that when your baby is in your room, you’re quicker to respond to their needs, both in terms of addressing their cries and offering comfort. When they move to their own room, there will be a physical distance between you, which might make it harder for you to respond as promptly. This change can affect how your baby adjusts to sleeping alone, as they may be used to your immediate presence and reassurance.
Tips before you do the transition
Prepare them (for older children who understand)
If you can communicate with your toddler, preparing them for the change can be very helpful. Whether the transition is happening that night or a few days away, let them know about the upcoming move to their own room. You might also ask if there’s anything they would like in their new space, such as specific bed sheets, a particular wall colour, or certain comfort toys. This can help them feel more involved and excited about the change. Another option for toddlers is to use a bedtime chart to make sleep time more exciting. I’ve created a perfect bedtime routine chart that you can download. It's in the free mini-guide, "Toddler Bedtime Routine Chart".
Create a sleep environment that encourages better sleep
Their sleep environment plays a crucial role in determining the quality and duration of sleep, and making specific adjustments to the bedroom can effectively encourage better rest. Read this blog, for all the details on how to do this.
Familiarise the room and make it a positive space
Spend time in there, make it a familiar space. While the primary purpose of the room is for sleep, you can make it a positive and engaging environment during daytime activities.
During the day, engage in enjoyable activities in their room. Keep the room well-lit to convey that it's not sleep time. You can incorporate simple and fun activities such as singing songs, reading books, playing peek-a-boo, or playing with their favourite toys.
By incorporating these elements, you can gradually help your little one view their bedroom as a positive and inviting space, while still maintaining its intended purpose for sleep.
Don't put them in their cot during this time for any reason. They should only be placed into the cot when it's time for sleep.
Make sure you're ready and be consistent
If you decide to move them to their own sleep space, my best advice is to stay consistent. Don’t change your approach if it becomes difficult; start the process when you’re truly ready. Otherwise, your little one might become confused if there are frequent changes and some back-and-forth.
Uh oh, the transition isn’t going as smoothly as you hoped. What to do now?
It’s common for babies and toddlers to resist the change and protest, especially if they’re used to being in the same room. Remember to stay consistent, but it’s important to avoid letting them just cry it out, that's not what we want at Babee Dreams. We've helped over 300 families in similar situations, we’ve found that being responsive is truly key. If you think you could benefit from additional support during this transition, I have the perfect resource: the "4-24 Month Sleep Guide." This guide is filled with solutions to help with the move.
If you feel you might need more personalised support, I offer phone consults, and one-on-one support through plans. These services allow us to work closely together and address your specific needs.
Use a monitor
If you usually respond quickly to your baby’s cries and wakes, be aware that they may still expect this level of immediate response. To stay connected and offer prompt reassurance, consider using a baby monitor to talk to them before you enter their room. However, if your goal is to reduce the number of wake-ups, it might be helpful to give them a bit of space, even if it's a brief walk from your room to theirs. Allowing some distance could help them adjust to falling back asleep on their own.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance regarding your baby's health and well-being, Babee Dreams does not give medical advice.
Written by Alexandra Selekos I'm the founder of Babee Dreams, a certified sleep consultant and a mum of three. My approach is based on studies, training through The Sleep Consulting Academy, successful outcomes experienced by those who have used my methods and the instincts of a mother. My approach will help your baby achieve their best sleep, whilst always feeling reassured, loved and never neglected.