Your baby is all set to hit the big one: transitioning from the crib to a toddler bed. Exciting, right? It’s an occasion all parents fear (and some secretly aspire to), but it’s part of growing up. Maybe your toddler is already so energetic and curious or is only beginning to notice that the crib is no longer “for him”. But don’t stress out — changing from crib to bed need not be complicated!
we’ll take you through everything you need to know: how to do it well, when is the right time, even what the most popular question that parents ask about this change. From hacks to expert suggestions, we’ve got you covered!
Why is the Crib-to-Bed Transition So Big of a Deal?
“But why should this matter?” You might be thinking, because toddlers are so quick! Well, not the furniture change. Transitioning from the crib to the bed is a big step for your child. This transition is linked to the child’s physical and mental development, according to the *American Academy of Pediatrics*.
Most children are ready to switch by the time they are 2 or 3. But it isn’t always at the same time for every child. The toddlers love to get out of the crib, but some are not so easily able to accept the move. This is completely normal.
But When Is It Time to Switch?
It’s the one everyone has to wrestle with: “How old am I going to be?” There is no right time, but there are a few common clues to knowing if your toddler is ready for a big-kid bed:
Dropping Out of the Crib
- If your child falls out of the crib, it’s bed time. It’s a safety concern, and a toddler in an open crib is far more accident prone.
- When toddlers get too tall for their crib, they may get squeezed in. You’ll start to see them get fussy or sleeping in strange positions.
- If your child is potty training and has to get out of bed during the night, a bed is better than a high-sided crib.
- Some children will become interested in other rooms’ “big kid” furniture or beds. If your kid asks to be in a bed, that could signal they are ready.
- When moving to bed, your child needs to know boundaries, like not playing outside the house at night. : If your toddler can handle basic commands, then maybe it’s time to switch.
What to Do and Don’ts of Crib-to-Bed Transition
This transition is not exactly easy, but it will be easy with a few simple rules.
Do Get Your Toddler Involved in the Activity.
The kiddos love to feel like they’re in control, so let them do some of the work. Let them pick out their new bed and sheets or even give them a special stuffed toy that will go to sleep with them. It’s that ownership which makes a transition feel more like a fun moment than a chore.
Don’t Rush the Process.
There are all types of children, and some are more sensitive. So don’t hurry up if your toddler is not quite ready yet. When it’s too early it will be a struggle every night and it will make bedtime so much more difficult than it needs to be.
Develop a Regular Bedtime Schedule.
Your toddler is more secure during this shift if he or she has the same routine. Remain with the same bedtime routine you’ve been practising in the crib — a book, a lullaby, whispering.
Don’t Expect Instant Success
Your toddler will probably be out of bed several times, if only for one last water refill or to report you on a nightmare. So be patient and steady and don’t treat it like an accusation.
How to Make Your Baby Transition From Crib to Bed Easy
These are some tried and tested tricks to make this transition easy for you and your toddler.
- Choose the Right Bed
The bed you have is essential. It should also be low enough to the floor that you won’t get hurt if your toddler dunks. Most of the parents go with a toddler bed, smaller and lower to the floor. But some kids skip the toddler bed and move directly to a twin-size bed with side rails.
Snack Tip: If you sleep on a firm mattress, it is advised by the *American Academy of Pediatrics* for maximum spinal support and safety reasons.
- Keep the Same Sleeping Environment
Make the rest of your child’s sleeping space as close to home as possible. This would be the same curtains, night light and anything else they are comfortable with. If your baby used to have a special blanket or toy in the crib, keep it in the new bed.
- Adopt a Safety Rail or Toddler Bed Fence
Though your child might be ecstatic to fall asleep in his new bed, he may not be coordinated to remain put all night. Safety rails are an excellent investment that gives you peace of mind while they settle in. Check that they’re attached securely and bed-sized.
- Try a Nightlight
Some toddlers appreciate having a nightlight when they make the move to a big bed. It can leave them less lonely or scared in the dark. Select warm-coloured light so that it does not interrupt their sleep.
- Merge the Bed in a Good Way
Your toddler might want to show their new bed some love and say happy moving day. Host a “big-kid bed” party or even set up a game-like reward system in which your kid earns a sticker or small token every time they are in bed.
- Be Patient and Consistent
After the bed is made, leave your child some time to get used to it. Perhaps they’ll try to get out of bed or not want to sleep in bed in the first place. Have patience, respect bedtime rules, and always put them in bed gently.
Some of the Things You Might Fail To Do and How To Get Over It.
As with any new transition, getting a bed has ups and downs. Here are a few of the most common ones and how to deal with them.
- Frequent Night Wakings
Parents tell us their toddlers wake up more frequently in the first few weeks of having a new bed. It may be because they are not used to the space and are afraid. To help, be reassuring. Calm them with your sweet voice, but don’t put them into your bed as this is a pattern that can be hard to disperse.
- Resisting the Bed
If your toddler doesn’t like the bed, don’t battle it. Reward them with praise if they sleep in, or reward them. Or you can slow it down by placing the crib mattress on the floor next to the bed and moving slowly.
- Falling Out of Bed
The first few weeks are sometimes rough for toddlers who don’t stay in bed. : You can try laying down fluffy pillows or pillows on the bed’s floor to prevent it from happening. You can also have bed rails or side bumpers for your toddler.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: If my toddler doesn’t want to go to bed with me, what can I do?
A: This is a widespread issue! If your toddler won’t go to sleep in the new bed, give them some security. Keep their favourite things handy and tell them the bed is safe and comfortable. You can even give small prizes if they go to bed.
Q: Can I get my toddler out of the crib before bedtime?
A: Try not to get in too early. For a toddler under 2 years old she might not be physically or mentally ready to settle in bed. Until they seem prepared (such as getting out of the crib or asking for a big-kid bed).
Q: What are the best toddler beds?
A: The right bed for your toddler is the one that suits your toddler. A toddler bed that is low to the ground and equipped with safety rails is perfect. But some parents transition into a twin bed with side rails that you can move up to. Make sure that the bed is secure and your kid’s size.
Conclusion: Change is Coming!
The transition from crib to bed is huge for you and your toddler, but it can also be a great time to savour learning and independence. If you plan, are patient, and a bit creative, then you can keep the transition as simple and stress-free as possible.
Always remember that every child is different, so don’t worry if things don’t go right. All you have to do is stay calm, support them, and enjoy the crazy fun transitions of adolescence.