When you should move them is subjective, based on your child’s and family’s needs. If your child is happy in their crib, and not attempting to climb out, there is no rush, unless you need it for a new baby. It is recommended that by the time your child can stand (with crib at its lowest level) and their chest is at or above the rail (generally between 18 months and 24 months), it is time to begin transitioning them to a new bed. If they are climbing out, or attempting to, it is also time to consider it. It is quite a drop from the top of a crib to the floor, and we all want to avoid injury.
How do we make this change as easily as possible?
- If possible, have your child help pick out a sturdy bed and new bedding for it, if desired. Most parents prefer toddler beds, as it may be an easier transition, and when they roll out (almost every child does) there is a shorter distance to fall. Though some choose to just put a mattress on the floor, or use a regular twin bed. The choice is up to you.
- Put the bed together with their help, and leave the bed and crib up together for a bit to help them get used to it.
- Before putting them into their new bed, be sure that the room/house is toddler/child-proof if not already done. It is recommended to bolt bookcases to the walls, secure TVs, put latches on dresser drawers so they cannot open and climb them, lock cabinets with cleaning supplies or medicines, etc.
- You will want to be sure all stairs have a secure baby gate on them, so if your child is up walking around they cannot fall. Some parents will put a gate in the child’s room to help keep them in the room, put bells on the door to alert them, or have a visual baby monitor (they will get out of bed). You have to do what you feel is best for your family.
- Have the floor prepared for rolling out of bed. (putting a padded rug underneath, or pillows may help.
- Let the child slowly put some of their favorite things in the new bed, allowing them to play and explore on it may be helpful.
O.K. so now you’re ready to try it. What should I do? What should I expect?
- Predetermine how you will handle it when (not if) they get out of their bed.
- It is a good idea to review the rules when laying them down. For example, “Now it is time for you to stay in bed and close your eyes to sleep, just like you did in your other bed”. Most children will get up once you have left. Do you calmly put them back in bed, or do you let them explore? This is something you want to think about ahead of time, so everyone is on the same page.
- Some parents have set timers to go back and check on children and put them back in bed if they are up.
- Is it the end of the world if they play instead of taking a nap for a day or two?
- Will you have the door closed? A gate on the door?
- If you choose to sit by them while they fall asleep, keep in mind that if your child was previously trained to go to sleep on their own, you may be beginning that process all over.
- They will at some point roll out of bed. If they sleep through it, do you leave them, or put them back in bed? Part of that will depend on if your child would stay asleep through moving them or not. It is your call.
- Once they are used to sleeping in their new bed, you can have a crib removal party. Let them help you take it out, and make a big deal about it!
The toddler years are filled with exploration and searching for dependence. Celebrate this time with your child. While it may not be an easy transition, know that you are helping them to grow up into an independent, autonomous, and balanced child.
We hope that this has helped you. If you find yourself with further questions or are looking for other resources, visit us at vkearlylearning.com and we would be more than happy to assist you in any way we possibly can.
