Transitioning to a Toddler Bed- What you Need to Know

Transitioning your little one from a crib to a toddler bed can be on your mind for several reasons. Perhaps your toddler has the new-found ability to escape from their crib, leaving them susceptible to bumps and scrapes. Maybe your little one has been suggesting the idea that they are big now and no longer need a crib like a baby. Alternatively, you may be about to have a new baby and require the crib for the new addition. No matter what your reasoning for beginning the transition from crib to toddler bed, there are ways to make that transition go smoothly.

Make it a Positive Thing

Avoid bringing up any negative factors and talk about how positive the transition is instead. If you require the crib for a new baby, don’t bring that up, instead, focus on your toddler and their feelings. Reassure your little one that they are growing up so fast and enthusiastically encourage them to be excited too.

Don’t Forget a Toddler Rail

A toddler rail can prevent those middle of the night falls to the floor. When your toddler is used to the confines of a crib, they aren’t quite prepared to sleep right out in the open. A good toddler rail can help to make sure that they get a good, safe night’s sleep.

Make the Rules Clear

Although transitioning to a toddler bed can be exciting, make sure you set rules and boundaries in a clear manner. Let your little ones know that they are to stay in bed until the sun comes up, they aren’t to jump on the bed and they are required to come get you before they go anywhere else in the house.

Make Sure the Room and Safe and Comfortable

Think of your child’s entire room as you would your little one’s crib. Now that there are no bars keeping your toddler safe, you need to make sure that the room is safe. Remove all clutter and items that your little one can trip over in the middle of the night. Anything you don’t want your little one to play with should be put in a different room. In fact, it’s best to keep the room as empty as possible to lessen any danger or temptation to get up and play.

Have a Routine

Chances are, you already have a set bedtime routine in place. If you do, make sure the routine doesn’t change just because they have changed their sleep situation, instead keep things as close to the same as possible. If you do not yet have a bedtime routine, it’s a good idea to start one now. Make bedtime predictable for your little one so they know that when they get into their new big kid bed, they are to stay there.

There are several ways to make the transition of a crib to toddler bed go smoothly. Just make sure to stay positive, set clear boundaries, ensure the room is safe and comfortable and you put a routine in place. In no time, your big kid will be enjoying their brand-new bed and a new-found sense of freedom.

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