Making the Move to a Toddler Bed

There are many important transitions that you and your child will make together throughout the childrearing years. One of the big transitions for a child is the move to a toddler bed from the crib that he has probably slept in since birth. This change will offer your child more mobility and independence, but can also leave him feeling more exposed and less secure. When it comes time to move your child from the crib to a toddler bed, there are some steps that you can take to ensure that this transition goes as smoothly as possible for you and your child.

When you should make the Move

The switch to a toddler bed can take place anywhere between 18 months of age and three years. There are some signs that you can watch for to determine if your child is ready to make the big move to a toddler bed. First, if your little one is able to climb out of his crib, moving him to a toddler bed that is low to the ground is a matter of safety. You can also think about making this move if your child is three feet tall, or is standing and climbing in his crib. Sometimes the move to a toddler bed becomes necessary when potty training begins, or when a new sibling comes into the family.

Finding the Right Bed for your Child

When you begin shopping for a toddler bed for your child, you will find that it is easy to be tempted by the many adorable designs and bright colors that you have to choose from. Before heading out to the store, have a good idea in mind of the size, color and shape of the bed that you will be hunting for. The advantage to transitioning your child to a toddler bed between the crib and regular twin bed is that toddler beds are generally lower to the floor and offer railings to keep your child from falling out of bed. Once you have taken safety into consideration, style is primarily a matter of preference – and budgetary limits.

If your child seems apprehensive about the move away from the security of his crib, make the shopping trip for the new bed an exciting family excursion with your toddler leading the way. If there is concern about convincing your child to move into his new bed, allowing him to be an instrumental part of the selection process can build enthusiasm for the coming transition.

Once the toddler bed has been selected, establish a bedtime routine with your child that can include a story, song, and a favorite stuffed animal. The nighttime habits that you implement now will make your bedtime routine a pleasant ritual for both of you.