Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed: when and how

As your little one grows, so do their sleep needs. Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed is a significant milestone that marks a new chapter in your child's sleep routine. In this blog post, we'll explore when and how to make this shift, ensuring a restful and positive experience for both you and your toddler.

When Is the Right Time to Transition?

Timing is key when it comes to moving from a crib to a toddler bed. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some signs that your child might be ready for the switch:

1. Climbing Out of the Crib:

   • If your toddler has become a little escape artist and is regularly climbing out of the crib, it's a clear sign that the time for a toddler bed may have arrived.

   • WAIT! Before you make the jump, and if your little one is under age 2.5, try these tips to keep them in their crib:

     • Introduce a sleep sack if they don’t already have one

     • If they do have a sleep sack: turn it backwards. Still isn’t working? Turn it backwards and inside out. Keeping their sticky little gecko feet inside of the sleep sack can be a great climbing deterrent

     • If your crib has a high side, turn it around so the high side is between them and the door, and the low side is against the wall

     • Get that mattress as low as it can go. Some cribs can have the mattress on the floor while still inside the crib, safely. However, if it’s possible for your child to move the mattress out from under the crib, this is not a safe option.

2. Expressing Interest:

   • If your child is over age 2.5 and shows interest in "big-kid" beds or expresses a desire to sleep in one, they may be emotionally ready for the transition.

3. Potty Training Readiness:

   • Often, the transition to a toddler bed coincides with potty training. If your child is showing signs of readiness for this developmental milestone, it might be a good time to consider the switch.

4. Age:

   • Physiologically, children don’t have the capability to understand invisible boundaries (ie stay in your bed/room) until age 2.5-3. Some children can transition before this age and do just fine. This is largely temperament based. Waiting until they have the physiological availability to understand these new boundaries can help this transition go a bit more smoothly.

   • If you have to transition before this age due to safety, try to consider their entire room as one big crib. This means extensive safety proofing for when they inevitably get up to wander around their new space.

How to Make the Transition Smooth:

1. Introduce the Idea:

   • Talk to your toddler about the exciting transition to a big-kid bed. Use positive language and involve them in the process, making them feel like a big part of the decision.

2. Choose the Right Bed:

   • Whether it's a toddler bed, a low twin bed, or a convertible crib, choose a bed that suits your child's needs. Safety rails can provide added security during the transition.

3. Maintain Familiarity:

   • If possible, keep the new bed in the same location as the crib. Surround the bed with familiar items, such as their favorite stuffed animals or blankets. If you’re getting new bedding, involve them! Let them pick or choose between options.

4. Maintain Your Bedtime Routine:

   • If you have an established bedtime routine, keep it pretty close to the same. These familiar pieces can help your child feel safe in this new environment

5. Address Fears:

   • Your child may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension about the new bed. Empathize with the feeling, not the fear, and reassure them that they’re safe.

   • This could be a time that’s appropriate to introduce a night light, if they ask for one. A red/orange/warm hued light is the best fit so that melatonin is not disrupted.

6. Gradual Transition:

   • Consider a gradual transition, if safety isn’t a concern, by initially introducing naps in the new bed. This allows your child to become familiar with the space before tackling nighttime sleep.

7. Be Patient:

   • Understand that adjustments take time. It's normal for there to be some resistance or changes in sleep patterns during the transition. Be patient, consistent, kind and supportive as your little one adjusts to the new normal.

This can be a really fun, exciting, process as you watch your little one shift into a new stage of childhood. Recognizing the signs of readiness and implementing a thoughtful transition, you can ensure that the move to a big-kid bed is a positive and comforting experience for both parents and toddlers alike. Sweet dreams in the new big-kid bed!