Transitioning From a Crib to a Toddler Bed

Independence and Self-Help SkillsToddler
If your toddler is outgrowing their crib, it could be the right moment to transition them from a crib to a toddler bed!

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Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed is a significant milestone for you and your child. It’s important to consider the timing of this transition carefully because good sleep is crucial for a child’s overall well-being and development. Sleep impacts various aspects of a child’s life, including emotional regulation, social interactions, learning ability, and focus. 

Parents often feel anxious about changing their child’s established sleep routine, especially if their child sleeps well in the crib. Transitioning too early can disrupt their sleep patterns and lead to bedtime struggles.

When to Transition Your Toddler From a Crib to Bed

As a parent, you should consider transitioning your toddler from a crib to a bed before they can climb out of the crib, which could pose a safety risk. Most toddlers reach a height of about 35 inches and can climb over the crib rail between 18 and 24 months of age. However, some children may attempt to climb out sooner, indicating it’s time to switch to a bed.

Not all toddlers will try to climb out of their crib, and some may prefer sleeping in their crib past the age of 2. However, delaying the transition for too long may lead to increased attachment to the crib, making the transition to a toddler bed more challenging.

Ultimately, deciding to transition from a crib to a bed should be based on individual factors such as your child’s behaviour, development, and safety considerations. Like other developmental milestones such as potty training, the transition should be approached thoughtfully to meet your child’s unique needs and readiness.

When not to Transition to a Toddler Bed

Avoid transitioning your toddler to a bed too early, especially before 18 months, to prioritise their safety and well-being. Before this age, your toddler should continue sleeping in a crib to ensure their safety during sleep.

Once your child reaches 18 months, you should carefully assess if your toddler is emotionally, mentally, and physically ready to transition to a bed. While some wandering or bedtime resistance is common after the transition, toddlers who exhibit extreme upset, tantrums, or fearfulness may not be ready yet. In such cases, it’s important to delay the transition until the child demonstrates readiness cues and is better equipped to handle the change easily.

Signs That Your Toddler is Ready to Transition

While there isn’t a specific age when you should transition your child to a bed, certain behaviours can signal that it’s time for an upgrade. If you notice any of the following signs in your child, it could indicate that they’re ready for a bed, even if they’re younger than the typical age range for transitioning to a toddler bed.

Climbing out of the Crib

Climbing out of the crib is a major sign that it’s time to transition from a crib to a toddler bed. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children may attempt to climb out of the crib when they reach a height of 35 inches (89 centimetres), even when the mattress is placed at its lowest position. This poses a safety risk as they could fall while attempting to escape. Therefore, transitioning to a bed is essential to prevent accidents and ensure the child’s safety.

A new baby is on the way

If you’re expecting another baby, you might need to move your toddler to a bed to free up the crib for the newborn. Ideally, start this transition a few months before the baby arrives, so your toddler has time to adjust to the new bed without feeling replaced by their sibling. However, if your toddler isn’t developmentally ready to leave the crib, it might be best to get a second crib for the new baby. 

Transitioning to a toddler bed is typically recommended for children at least 18 months old. If you’re expecting another child and purchasing another crib isn’t feasible, it provides a convenient transition opportunity. 

However, it’s crucial to approach the transition sensitively to ensure your toddler doesn’t feel replaced or neglected. Start the transition process at least a month or two before the new baby arrives, making it an exciting milestone for your child as they become big brothers or sisters with their big kid bed.

Express Interest in a big bid bed

If your child shows curiosity or excitement about transitioning to a big kid bed, they are likely mentally and emotionally prepared for the change. Their interest suggests that they understand the concept of a different sleeping arrangement and are eager to embrace this new milestone.

Fully potty trained at night or still in process

When children are fully potty-trained at night or in the process of mastering it, it may be a good time to consider transitioning them to a bed. This milestone indicates they have developed bladder control and are less likely to need diaper changes at night. Moving to a bed provides easier access to the bathroom, allowing them to independently manage their nighttime needs without relying on diapers or training pants.

Old enough to transition to a bed

Transitioning a toddler to a bed before they reach 18 months is generally not recommended. After this age, you should consider factors such as the child’s size, physical abilities, temperament, and maturity level before transitioning. 

According to a 2019 study, delaying the transition until the child is 3 years old may have benefits. The study revealed that toddlers who continued to sleep in cribs experienced positive outcomes, including earlier bedtimes, quicker falling asleep, fewer nighttime awakenings, longer sleep durations, fewer sleep disturbances, and reduced bedtime resistance.

How to Make Transitioning from a Crib to a Toddler bed Easier

Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed can feel like a significant step for your toddler, as it introduces them to a newfound sense of freedom and independence. If your toddler is hesitant about the transition, there are several ways to help them adjust and feel more comfortable.

How to Make Transitioning from a Crib to a Toddler bed Easier

Place the new bed in the same location as the toddler’s crib to maintain a familiar sleeping environment. If transitioning to a twin bed, consider retaining the child’s previous bedding, including their old crib blanket, for added comfort. Ensure to install a guardrail if the bed doesn’t come with one to prevent potential falls during the night.

If you are purchasing a new bed, engage your toddler in the process of selecting it. Allow them to participate in choosing the bed frame or bedding, making the transition feel like an exciting milestone. If you are inheriting a used bed, highlight any sentimental value, such as if it belonged to a cousin or sibling, to make the transition more meaningful for the child.

Include your toddler in the shopping for new bedding, featuring their favourite characters or themes to create excitement about their “big-kid bed.” Encourage them to show off their new bed to friends and family proudly. Ensure that the mattress is safe and appropriate for the new bed frame, or opt for a specialised “toddler bed” with built-in guardrails for added safety and themed fun.

Choose an appropriate time to transition, avoiding periods of significant change or disruption in your child’s life, such as starting potty training or moving homes. Consider your child’s readiness cues and developmental stage when determining the timing of the transition.

Establish clear boundaries and expectations regarding bedtime behaviour, emphasising the importance of staying in bed once the lights are out. Use visual aids like an “invisible gate” or boundary markers to reinforce these rules. If your child attempts to leave their bed at night, gently guide them back to bed and reassure them that it’s time to sleep.

Maintain consistency in your bedtime routine to give your child a sense of security and familiarity. Stick to familiar rituals such as bath time, teeth brushing, and story reading to help your child transition smoothly to their new bed.

Remain consistent in enforcing bedtime rules and routines, offering occasional flexibility but staying firm in your expectations. Consistency will help your child adjust to the new sleeping arrangement and establish healthy sleep habits.

Address your child’s comfort needs, such as fear of the dark, by providing a nightlight or leaving a light on in the hallway. If it helps your child feel secure and comfortable in their new bed, allow your child to sleep with a comfort object like a stuffed animal or blanket.

Acknowledge and praise your child’s positive behaviour, such as staying in bed all night, to reinforce desired habits. Consider using a reward system or offering verbal praise to encourage your child to continue following bedtime rules.

Be patient and persistent during the transition process, recognising that it may take time for your child to adjust to their new bed. If your child struggles with the transition, don’t give up immediately. Allow them time to adjust to the new sleeping arrangement, and be prepared to reintroduce the crib without making it a negative experience. Retry the transition at a later time when your child may be more ready.

How to Make Transitioning from a Crib to a Toddler bed Easier

Place the new bed in the same location as the toddler’s crib to maintain a familiar sleeping environment. If transitioning to a twin bed, consider retaining the child’s previous bedding, including their old crib blanket, for added comfort. Ensure to install a guardrail if the bed doesn’t come with one to prevent potential falls during the night.

If you are purchasing a new bed, engage your toddler in the process of selecting it. Allow them to participate in choosing the bed frame or bedding, making the transition feel like an exciting milestone. If you are inheriting a used bed, highlight any sentimental value, such as if it belonged to a cousin or sibling, to make the transition more meaningful for the child.

Include your toddler in the shopping for new bedding, featuring their favourite characters or themes to create excitement about their “big-kid bed.” Encourage them to show off their new bed to friends and family proudly. Ensure that the mattress is safe and appropriate for the new bed frame, or opt for a specialised “toddler bed” with built-in guardrails for added safety and themed fun.

Choose an appropriate time to transition, avoiding periods of significant change or disruption in your child’s life, such as starting potty training or moving homes. Consider your child’s readiness cues and developmental stage when determining the timing of the transition.

Establish clear boundaries and expectations regarding bedtime behaviour, emphasising the importance of staying in bed once the lights are out. Use visual aids like an “invisible gate” or boundary markers to reinforce these rules. If your child attempts to leave their bed at night, gently guide them back to bed and reassure them that it’s time to sleep.

Maintain consistency in your bedtime routine to give your child a sense of security and familiarity. Stick to familiar rituals such as bath time, teeth brushing, and story reading to help your child transition smoothly to their new bed.

Remain consistent in enforcing bedtime rules and routines, offering occasional flexibility but staying firm in your expectations. Consistency will help your child adjust to the new sleeping arrangement and establish healthy sleep habits.

Address your child’s comfort needs, such as fear of the dark, by providing a nightlight or leaving a light on in the hallway. If it helps your child feel secure and comfortable in their new bed, allow your child to sleep with a comfort object like a stuffed animal or blanket.

Acknowledge and praise your child’s positive behaviour, such as staying in bed all night, to reinforce desired habits. Consider using a reward system or offering verbal praise to encourage your child to continue following bedtime rules.

Be patient and persistent during the transition process, recognising that it may take time for your child to adjust to their new bed. If your child struggles with the transition, don’t give up immediately. Allow them time to adjust to the new sleeping arrangement, and be prepared to reintroduce the crib without making it a negative experience. Retry the transition at a later time when your child may be more ready.

The Type of bed to use

When choosing a toddler bed, you have a few options to consider. Toddler beds are smaller versions of twin beds specifically designed for toddlers. They often feature built-in side rails to prevent falls and come in fun designs that appeal to children. However, remember that your child will eventually outgrow a toddler bed and you’ll need to transition them to a larger bed as they continue to grow.

Alternatively, you can opt for a twin bed with safety rails to last your child throughout childhood. While twin beds may have less imaginative designs, you can add safety rails to prevent falls. When selecting a bed, it’s essential to ensure that the mattress and frame fit snugly together. Opt for a bed that sits low to the floor for easy access, reducing the risk of injury in case of falls.

Consider the bed’s durability to withstand typical toddler activity, and look for rounded edges to minimise the risk of injuries further. Convertible cribs are another option, serving as cribs and toddler beds. Removing one side of the crib allows your child to get in and out of bed independently while maintaining the comfort of the familiar crib environment. Some convertible cribs can be further converted into full-sized beds as your child ages.

How to Help Your Child Get Back to their Toddler Bed

Helping your toddler get back to bed if they’ve climbed out and wandered off involves a step-by-step approach:

  • Take your child’s hand and guide them back to bed, emphasising that they must stay in bed.

  • Refrain from singing lullabies, telling stories, or providing prolonged attention, as this may reinforce the behaviour of getting out of bed.

  • Reassure your child that you will check on them periodically during the night, offering comfort and security.

  • Before leaving the room, remind your child of the rule to stay in bed, bid them good night, and assure them that you’ll see them in the morning.

  • Repeat these steps as necessary throughout the night, maintain a calm and low-key manner to avoid rewarding the behaviour with excessive attention. Consistency and sensitivity are key to enforcing the rule of staying in bed and minimising nighttime escapes.

  • If your toddler successfully stays in bed throughout the night, offer praise and encouragement in the morning to reinforce the positive behaviour.

10 Safety Tips to Child-Proof Your Home

Transitioning to a toddler bed introduces new safety considerations since toddlers can climb out and move around independently. As a parent, you must address these safety concerns to ensure your child’s well-being.

  • Ensure no dangling curtain cords or wires are in your child’s bedroom.

  • Cover electrical outlets to prevent access.

  • Add padding to any sharp corners to minimise injury risk.

  • Secure furniture to walls and childproof drawers to prevent tipping or accidents.

  • Position the bed’s headboard against the wall, leaving enough space on each side to prevent entrapment between the mattress and the walls.

  • Avoid placing the bed under windows.

  • Lock windows in your child’s bedroom for safety.

  • Installing a bell on the bedroom door can alert you if your child leaves the room, rather than locking the door, which could pose a fire safety risk.

  • Place soft rugs or pillows on the floor around the bed to cushion potential falls.

  • Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent access if your toddler can reach them.

Key Facts

  • Delaying the transition too long may increase attachment to the crib, making the switch to a bed more challenging.

  • A 2019 study found benefits in delaying the transition until the child is 3 years old, leading to positive sleep outcomes.

  • Retain familiar bedding, such as the old crib blanket, to provide comfort during the transition.

  • Convertible cribs serve as both a crib and a toddler bed, offering flexibility as your child ages.

  • Before leaving the room, remind your child of the rule to stay in bed, bid them good night, and assure them that you’ll see them in the morning.

  • To reinforce positive behaviour, offer praise and encouragement in the morning if your toddler stays in bed throughout the night.

  • Consider installing a bell on the bedroom door to alert you if your child leaves the room, rather than locking the door, which could pose a fire safety risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Every child develops at their own pace, including when it comes to being ready to sleep through the night in a toddler bed. While the typical age range for transitioning out of a crib is between 18 months and 3 years old, it’s important to recognise that readiness varies from child to child.

If your 2-year-old has difficulty adjusting to a toddler bed and isn’t yet sleeping well through the night, it’s perfectly acceptable to revert to using the crib for a while longer. This allows more time for your child to mature and become comfortable with the idea of sleeping in a bed.

If the transition from crib to toddler bed isn’t going smoothly, you must remain patient and consistent in your approach. First, uphold your bedtime routine to provide structure and familiarity for your child during this transition period. If your child wanders out of bed, gently guide them back and reinforce the expectation of staying in bed.

Additionally, to encourage the desired behaviour, offer praise and positive reinforcement when your child successfully stays in bed all night. However, if you find that your child consistently struggles with the transition and shows signs of distress or resistance, it’s okay to consider reverting to the crib for a few months. 

This temporary return to the crib can give your child additional time to adjust and develop readiness for the transition.

Toddlers who have recently transitioned from a crib to a bed may experience a newfound sense of freedom and independence, no longer confined by the four walls of a crib. This liberation can lead to a desire to extend the day’s activities into the night, tempting them to get out of bed to continue playing or exploring.

Additionally, the transition to a new bed can feel unfamiliar and strange to toddlers, leading to feelings of discomfort or insecurity. As a result, they may seek comfort from their caregivers, prompting them to climb out of bed in search of reassurance and connection.

To address this behaviour, it’s important to establish clear “big kid” rules and boundaries to help your toddler adjust to the change. Communicating expectations and reinforcing bedtime routines can help your little one feel more secure and confident in their new sleeping environment, ultimately reducing the urge to get out of bed at night.

Although there’s no fixed age for transitioning, it typically occurs between 2 and 3 ½ years old, with many experts recommending waiting until the child’s third birthday, if feasible. Since every child is unique, signs such as regularly climbing out of the crib or expressing interest in a big kid bed can indicate that it’s time to make the transition.

Deciding whether to transition your child from a crib to a toddler bed before a new sibling arrives depends on your child’s readiness and your family’s situation. 

One option is to make the transition early, possibly while you’re still pregnant. This allows your older child to adjust to the bed before the baby arrives, reducing the likelihood of resentment towards the new sibling for taking the crib. 

However, if your toddler isn’t ready for the transition, it’s best to wait and use a bassinet for the new baby until your older child is ready for a toddler bed. This approach gives your child more time to mature and adjust, minimising potential jealousy or resistance to the change. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your child’s readiness and comfort level with the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Every child develops at their own pace, including when it comes to being ready to sleep through the night in a toddler bed. While the typical age range for transitioning out of a crib is between 18 months and 3 years old, it’s important to recognise that readiness varies from child to child.

If your 2-year-old has difficulty adjusting to a toddler bed and isn’t yet sleeping well through the night, it’s perfectly acceptable to revert to using the crib for a while longer. This allows more time for your child to mature and become comfortable with the idea of sleeping in a bed.

If the transition from crib to toddler bed isn’t going smoothly, you must remain patient and consistent in your approach. First, uphold your bedtime routine to provide structure and familiarity for your child during this transition period. If your child wanders out of bed, gently guide them back and reinforce the expectation of staying in bed.

Additionally, to encourage the desired behaviour, offer praise and positive reinforcement when your child successfully stays in bed all night. However, if you find that your child consistently struggles with the transition and shows signs of distress or resistance, it’s okay to consider reverting to the crib for a few months. 

This temporary return to the crib can give your child additional time to adjust and develop readiness for the transition.

Toddlers who have recently transitioned from a crib to a bed may experience a newfound sense of freedom and independence, no longer confined by the four walls of a crib. This liberation can lead to a desire to extend the day’s activities into the night, tempting them to get out of bed to continue playing or exploring.

Additionally, the transition to a new bed can feel unfamiliar and strange to toddlers, leading to feelings of discomfort or insecurity. As a result, they may seek comfort from their caregivers, prompting them to climb out of bed in search of reassurance and connection.

To address this behaviour, it’s important to establish clear “big kid” rules and boundaries to help your toddler adjust to the change. Communicating expectations and reinforcing bedtime routines can help your little one feel more secure and confident in their new sleeping environment, ultimately reducing the urge to get out of bed at night.

Although there’s no fixed age for transitioning, it typically occurs between 2 and 3 ½ years old, with many experts recommending waiting until the child’s third birthday, if feasible. Since every child is unique, signs such as regularly climbing out of the crib or expressing interest in a big kid bed can indicate that it’s time to make the transition.

Deciding whether to transition your child from a crib to a toddler bed before a new sibling arrives depends on your child’s readiness and your family’s situation. 

One option is to make the transition early, possibly while you’re still pregnant. This allows your older child to adjust to the bed before the baby arrives, reducing the likelihood of resentment towards the new sibling for taking the crib. 

However, if your toddler isn’t ready for the transition, it’s best to wait and use a bassinet for the new baby until your older child is ready for a toddler bed. This approach gives your child more time to mature and adjust, minimising potential jealousy or resistance to the change. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your child’s readiness and comfort level with the transition.

1. Healthy Children: Make Baby’s Room Safe: Parent Checklist

2. Healthy Children: Big Kid Beds: When to Switch From a Crib

3. Medical News Today: When is it time for a toddler to transition to a bed?

4. Nationwide Children: Transitioning from a Crib to a Toddler Bed

5. Sleep Foundation: When To Transition From Crib To A Toddler Bed

6. Williamson, A.A., Leichman, E.S., Walters, R.M. and Mindell, J.A., 2019. Caregiver-perceived sleep outcomes in toddlers sleeping in cribs versus beds. Sleep medicine, 54, pp.16-21.

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