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Determine the right time to transition your toddler to a bed with our expert advice
Even if you're excited to replace your toddler's crib with a bed, there might be unmistakable signs that they're not prepared for the change. Shifting your child to a toddler bed is a significant decision, and timing it correctly ensures a smooth transition. We consulted parenting and wellness specialists to assist you in determining whether your toddler should remain in their crib and how to transition them to a bed seamlessly when they're ready.
Key Points to Consider
- If your toddler struggles with sleeping through the night or doesn't adhere to established rules, they may not be ready for a big kid bed.
- Keep your toddler in their crib if they cannot climb out and if the railing exceeds their chest height.
- Wait until your toddler reaches between 18 months and 3 years old before transitioning them to a big kid bed.
Action Steps
Indications Your Toddler Might Not Be Ready for a Big Kid Bed
They experience sleep difficulties. If your toddler frequently calls for you at bedtime or wakes up during the night, transitioning to a big kid bed prematurely could exacerbate the issue. Your toddler might repeatedly get out of bed or call out for attention, potentially developing unfavorable sleep habits.
- Address any sleep issues before making the switch to a toddler bed to ensure a smooth transition.
They challenge boundaries and struggle with rules. Moving from a crib to a bed grants toddlers more freedom to explore their surroundings, increasing the likelihood of misbehavior. If your toddler has difficulty following rules and you're concerned about nighttime safety, keeping them in a crib may be best for now.
The crib rail is taller than their chest. As your toddler grows, the risk of them falling over the crib rail increases. Check if the railing still exceeds their chest height when standing. If possible, lower the crib mattress and raise the railing.
- Once your toddler exceeds 35 inches (89 cm) in height or the crib rail reaches their mid-chest level, it's a suitable time to transition to a bed.
They cannot climb out of the crib. If your child hasn't yet figured out how to climb over the crib rail, it's likely safe to delay transitioning to a toddler bed. Once they can escape the crib, there's a risk of potential falls and injuries.
- Toddler beds are closer to the ground and easier to exit than cribs, reducing the risk of injury.
They haven’t expressed interest in having a bed. When toddlers are ready to transition to a big kid bed, they usually inquire about getting one. If your toddler hasn't brought up the idea, they're likely still comfortable in their crib.
Other significant life changes are on the horizon. If you anticipate major life events such as relocating, starting at a new daycare, or welcoming another child, it might be wise to postpone the transition. Introducing a new bed during a period of upheaval could add to your toddler's stress.
- If you're expecting a new baby, consider transitioning your toddler to a bed a few months before or after the baby's arrival. This approach can help your child adjust without feeling displaced by their sibling.
What is the ideal age for a toddler to switch to a bed?
Typically between 18 months and 3 years old Every child progresses differently, so there isn't a precise age when toddlers should make the transition. While many experts suggest transitioning between ages 2 and 3, signs that your child is ready for a toddler bed include demonstrating self-control, consistently sleeping through the night, and adhering to established rules.
Preparing Your Toddler for Bedtime in a New Setting
Childproof the entire room. When transitioning your toddler to a bed from a crib, they gain more freedom to move around. To ensure safety and prevent accidents during the night, take precautions to childproof the bedroom by:
- Installing window safety locks
- Keeping curtain cords at least 5 feet (1.5 m) off the floor
- Using outlet covers
- Securing heavy furniture with wall brackets
- Eliminating potential choking or climbing hazards
- Using a safety gate at the door
- Positioning one side of the toddler bed against the wall
Involve your toddler in selecting their bed or decor. Allow your toddler to participate in choosing their new bed. Let them pick the bed style or assist in selecting bedding, pillows, or room decorations. Allowing your toddler to make decisions fosters excitement about their bed and facilitates a smooth transition.
Introduce the toddler bed for daytime naps initially. Instead of immediately transitioning to overnight sleeping in the new bed, use it exclusively for daytime naps initially. This approach enables your toddler to become accustomed to sleeping in the bed while you supervise them. Once they are comfortable napping in the bed, gradually transition to overnight sleep.
Establish a consistent sleep routine. Giselle Baumet, owner of Granola Babies, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent daily routine for toddlers, stating that 'your toddler relies heavily on routine.' Set a fixed bedtime to ensure your toddler receives 10–14 hours of sleep.
- Baby sleep specialist Julie Wright, MFT suggests initiating wind-down activities an hour before bedtime to signal to your child's internal clock that it's time to sleep. This may involve dimming lights, closing blinds, and limiting screen time. Utilize this period to bathe your toddler, sing lullabies, or read bedtime stories to help them relax.
- Julie Wright, MFT also recommends concluding the evening routine with a brief conversation, discussing the day's events or plans for the following day.
Offer abundant encouragement to your toddler. During the transition to the new bed, express pride in your toddler and provide ample praise when they successfully sleep through the night. Consider rewarding your toddler each time they remain in bed throughout the night. Utilize a sticker chart near their bed as a motivational tool, or allow them to choose a special snack the next day.
Guide your toddler back to bed if they get up or call out. As your toddler adjusts to sleeping in a big kid bed, there may be instances where they wake up and call for you. When your toddler leaves their bed, kindly encourage them to return and emphasize the importance of sleep. If they persist in leaving, gently guide them back to bed without engaging in conversation or punishment.
- It might take a few days for your child to adapt, so remain patient and consistent in your approach.
Recommendations
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Select a toddler bed with secure guardrails that snugly fit the mattress to prevent your child from falling out.
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Baby sleep specialist Julie Wright, MFT suggests, “Whenever you're transitioning your child, it's beneficial to give them some daytime...playtime in the new setting.” She emphasizes the importance of creating positive associations and familiarity with the new bed's environment.
