How to Transition to Toddler Bed: Parent's Guide
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Eventually, the time will come when your tiny tot isnโt so tiny anymore. You blink, and suddenly theyโre stringing together complete sentences, using the potty (sometimes), and gifting you spontaneous hugs and kisses.
Another change that happens when your baby transitions from infancy to toddlerhood involves the transition from crib to toddler bed. This is a huge milestone in your little oneโs lifeโand yours!
If the idea of making the move from crib to toddler bed sounds intimidating, youโre not alone. Weโre here to hold your hand and seamlessly walk you through how to transition to a toddler bed so you can navigate this exciting journey with confidence and ease.
Table of contents
The first step in transitioning to a toddler bed is deciding when to make the move. Fortunately, no hard and fast rule demands you move them on their second birthday, or even their third, for that matter.
Rather, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to help you make the transition when itโs right for you and your tot.
Whether youโre planning on making your toddler a big brother or sister or youโre already pregnant, itโs important to decide whether you want to recycle your toddlerโs current crib or purchase another.
If you decide to reuse your current crib, consider transitioning them to their toddler bed a few months before the new baby arrives. This gives them ample time to feel comfortable in their new bed and may help them avoid feelings of displacement when they see the baby sleeping in their old crib.
More than anything else, is your mini-me showing signs that theyโre ready for a big kid bed? While you donโt need to wait for them to check off every item from the following list, generally speaking, toddlers are ready for the transition if youโre nodding yes to one or more of the following signs:
Theyโve made a break for freedom by climbing out of their crib
Theyโre 36 inches tall (or tall enough to climb out if they want to)
Theyโre between 18 months and three and a half years old
Their chest is as tall as the railing in their crib
Theyโre asking to sleep in a โbig kidโ bed
While you may get excited about sleeping on a brand-new bed frame and mattress, your toddler is likely not as thrilled at the prospect. If faced with this unanticipated and big change, theyโre more likely to resistโor sneak into your room for reassurance multiple times throughout the night.
Fortunately, there are a few proactive measures you can take to help them make the big transition more smoothly from crib to toddler bed, such as:
Introducing the idea gradually โ Talk to your little one about the toddler bed transition a few weeks before the new bed arrives. Use positive words and feelings of excitement to build their enthusiasm. You can also incorporate age-appropriate books or television shows that highlight instances of other children enjoying their new big kid beds.
Involving your toddler in the process โ Another way to increase their excitement at the prospect of a toddler bed is by allowing them to be part of the decision-making. After youโve whittled down the bedding options, consider letting them choose the final design or pattern. Then, once youโve assembled the bed, ask them if they want to help you make the bed and add all of the finishing touches, such as throw pillows and their favorite stuffed animals.
When figuring out how to transition a toddler to bed, one of the most overlooked aspects involves selecting a bed that is not only safe but also matches your toddler's style (and bedroom decor). To find that perfect bed, here are some crucial factors to consider:
Style and design โ You can narrow down your options quickly by searching for beds that complement your little oneโs current bedroom theme. First, consider whether you prefer a classic or modern bed frame. Then, refine your search further by looking for a bed that coordinates with the bedroomโs color scheme.
Ease of assembly โ If youโre a maverick at assembling furniture, then the difficulty level of the bedโs assembly is of no consequence for youโthe world is your oyster. However, if you donโt want to worry about losing an essential screw or struggling to assemble 30 parts correctly, aim for a toddler bed with easy-to-follow instructions and minimal partsโyouโll thank yourself later.
Budget โ Determining your budget will help you condense your options. Once you have a budget in mind, you can shortlist your favorite toddler beds based on price points, retailers, and brands.
Transition features โ Many toddler beds convert from a toddler bed to a twin bed or full-size bed, making them an excellent economical and long-term sleep solution. Some also offer adjustable mattress heights, so you can lower the mattress as your toddler grows.
Bed rails โ Youโve probably seen your toddler finagle themselves into a few precarious positions as they sleep soundly in their cribs. While you may have questioned how they could possibly be comfortable, you didnโt have to worry about them falling out of the crib. When they move to a toddler bed, you want the same peace of mind. A bed with built-in bed rails on the sides will keep them from accidentally tumbling out of bed at night as they perform sleep acrobatics.
You introduced the idea to your little one, picked out a bed frame, and let them choose the bedding. Whatโs next?
Putting your plan into action and letting them sleep in their big kid bed.
Below, weโve included a few tips on how to get your toddler to stay in their own bed during the transition.
While your toddler may be excited about their new bed, theyโre probably a little nervous, too. You can ease their nerves by continuing with your usual bedtime routine as if nothing has changed.
For example, if your routine consists of brushing their teeth, reading a few books in their bedroom, and singing a lullaby when they get in bed, keep it up! Maintaining their normal routine can help them feel more relaxed as they adjust to their new bed.
Nothing makes littles more comfortable in a new environment than snuggling objects they have loved for a long time! These objects provide a sense of security and comfort, which can make the new bed feel more enticing and inviting.
Let your child choose a few of their favorite items below to help make their new setup all the more soothing:
Stuffed animals
Blankets
Special pillows
On night one, let your little one know your sleep rules and expectations for their toddler bed. For example, you can say that you expect them to stay in their beds until morning (even though you know this likely will not happen) and to call for you if they need anything. This will help them learn how to stay in their bed at night.
While these expectations mightโokay, willโtake time to master, they help set more structure to your current routine.
This transition is a big deal for a two or three-year-old, so be sure to offer as much reassurance as they need. Give them words of encouragement each time they show enthusiasm for sleeping in their bed. And donโt forget, thereโs no such thing as handing out too many cuddles during this big transition. Hugs and kisses can provide additional support when your little one needs a reassuring presence.
Positive reinforcements are key in helping your tot embrace their new bed. Each time they stay in their bed all night or follow the bedtime rules, treat them to a little positive praise. You can choose from tangible or intangible rewards, such as:
Providing verbal praise , like โIโm so proud of you! Youโre such a big kid!โ
ย Create a sticker chartย ย and give them a sticker each time they do a good job.
Giving them a small treat , like an M&M or a piece of their favorite candy
Donโt be surprised if you wake up in the middle of the night and see their little eyes staring at you from the side of your bed. Try to be understanding and offer support as they adjust to the new normal of their toddler bed.
When the time comes to think about how to transition from crib to toddler bed, there are plenty of ways you can help your little one find comfort in their new bedโfrom discussing the idea well in advance to letting them be part of the whole process.
At Posh Peanut, weโre here to help make the transition as smooth as butter with our home and nursery collection. We offer colorful crib sheets that truly are as soft as a babyโs butt, as well as bedding to match your toddlerโs budding personality. So, you can easily make your toddler part of the transition and find comfort in knowing theyโre sleeping on breathable fabric thatโs gentle on their sensitive skin.
We also have equally as comfortable toddler pajamas ! This collection can help you navigate how to dress your toddler for sleep so they stay cozy all night long.
Explore our collection today to make your little one's journey from crib to toddler bed a comfortable and delightful one.
Sources:ย
1. Sleep Foundation. When to Transition From Crib to A Toddler Bed. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/when-to-switch-to-toddler-bed
2. Very Well Family. Choosing a Toddler Bed. https://www.verywellfamily.com/choosing-a-toddler-bed-5208432ย