How To Transition Out Of The Crib To A Toddler Bed

Wouldn’t it be nice if we were given an official notice for all transitions coming our way? While your little one may give you some clear signals when they’re ready to transition out of the crib to a bed, some little ones do not. The most common indicator will be attempting (and often succeeding) to climb out of the crib! Another reason to transition, is if your toddler cannot easily physically fit into the crib anymore. 

As with all stages of a child’s development and growth, the age at which they may be ready to make new transitions such as moving to a ‘big kid/grown up’ bed, can vary greatly from child to child. It will be down to you as a parent or guardian, to pick up on the signals and judge when it might be the right time to make the move. Not to worry, we are here to help. 

When is my child ready for a big kid’s bed?

There is no exact date for when a child should be transitioned from the crib to a bed. It can be tempting to jump into the next milestone, especially with adorable bedding options. The truth is, it is best to keep your toddler in the crib until they get closer to age three. Toddlers do not understand the responsibility of staying in bed. When they are no longer contained by the crib, they have the freedom to not only roam their bedroom, but potentially the entire house. We recommend holding off on this transition as long as possible, unless they are climbing out and there is nothing you can do prevent it. Let me elaborate… even if they are climbing out, try various sleep sacks that may restrict their leg movement so they cannot easily climb out. In addition, ensure the crib is at the absolute lowest setting possible. If you have tried everything, but the time has come to make the transition, read on. 

Tips for making the crib to bed transition smooth and less stressful

No two children are the same, and while some of these tips may work for one, they may not necessarily work for another. These are certainly worth doing when you’re thinking about moving your little one to a bed:

Try your best to get the timing right

If there are factors in your little one’s life which may be causing stress or anxiety, such as the birth of a sibling or attending a new daycare etc., then it might be best to delay the move to a bed until things have settled down. Too much change all at once could be difficult for them to cope with. Even if you have another baby on the way who needs the crib, consider using a bassinet or borrowing a crib from a friend. Second-hand cribs are another option. 

Make the transition exciting

Get your child to help you choose colourful sheets and comforters for their new bed. Speak positively about the transition during the day, so they are not surprised right at bedtime. 

Don’t forget to make the transition safe

While childproofing is of paramount importance for all parents and guardians, it’s always worth reassessing whether your child’s room is safe enough for them to be left alone in. If they tumble out of bed, will they bang their head? Or if they try to leave the bedroom, are they likely to have an accident involving stairs or windows? Secure all furniture before allowing the transition. Also consider a safety device on the door to limit potential household dangers. As yourself, “if my child is unattended for 5 minutes in this room – is there any risk?”

Try not to alter your child’s bedtime routine

Keep the bed in the same place where the crib was (if space alllows), and stick to your usual bedtime routine to help your child transition naturally and smoothly.

Be firm with when bedtime begins and play time ends

The new bed and/or new room could instil some excitement in your child, and they may want to toddle around and explore their new environment. However, to make sure you’re not kept waiting for hours for them to settle, try to be clear and tell your child when they must get into bed and remain there, and when play and exploration time must end. Be very firm on these boundaries from day one, and as time goes on. We often see families experience some tricky nights when the novelty of a new bed has worn off. When it comes down to it, toddlers are boundary pushers (for all of the best reasons), and if they know they can get away with it once, they’ll push harder next time. Consider allowing a small toy or book for your child to keep in their new bed. These small tools can keep them comfortable while they settle into sleep. 

Exercise patience and give praise when it’s due

It’s helpful if you don’t lose patience with your little one when they’re transitioning from their crib to a toddler bed. Try to remain calm. Any change in your tone or attitude will serve only to make your child frustrated and stressed, and the whole bedtime routine could be disturbed. You may choose to remain with them until they settle, too. Alternatively, you can confidently walk away and offer positive praise as they stay in their new bed. 

When your child does as you ask of them, praise them and perhaps even give a small reward if they continue to behave well; encouraging them to repeat their good behaviour every bedtime.

Expectations

If your toddler has been experiencing sleep struggles in their crib, do not expect them to disappear with the addition of a bed. If they counted on you to rock them to sleep, hold their hand, etc, you will likely need to continue doing that. 

Leaving the crib behind is a big change. While it may not always go smoothly, there are things you can do to ensure that your child remains safe throughout the transition. Be ready to embrace big feelings, boundary-testing and lengthier wind-downs. We are ready to help you navigate any challenges with our expert 1-on-1 support.