Transitioning from co-sleeping to cot

[rrreow]

We've been co-sleeping with 8 month old DS since birth and although I love it the time has come for him to sleep in his own bed for various reasons. The cot will initially go right by my side of the bed.

Cot arrived today, hoping to put it together later. We also got one of those baby sleeping bags for him. Overall I'm happy with the decision, a bit sad to stop co-sleeping but also excited about getting our bed back lol!

Currently our bed time routine is one feed before bed (lying down on the bed), then if he wakes in the night I give him some water, unless it's been 6 hours or more in which case I will feed if he's doesn't fall asleep again or is crying.

Sooo, anyone who has done the same/similar thing, do you have any tips or advice to help the transition go smoothly (or as smoothly as possible.. I do expect some sleepless nights!)?

I think you're doing the right thing by keeping the cot in your room initially. You could try doing what we did, which is to take one side off the cot and use bungee cords to attach the cot to your bed, so it's more an extension than a separate bed. Then side back on, then move away from the bed, then into his own room. Maybe 5 days/a week at a time. Be prepared for some setbacks if he's ill or teething and don't get stressed about it but make sure you and your DH are both determined that this is going to work or otherwise he will end up back in :)