Big Kid, Big Bed!

There are a lot of big accomplishments in the toddler years from learning to walk to starting to talk up a storm. Another big change can come when your child moves from their crib to a big boy or girl bed of their own. While this stage marks a big achievement for your child, it can also be a difficult transition for the family. Follow our ten tips for lessening the pain of sleepless nights due to your child’s first “big kid” bed.

1. Wait until your child is ready: A first tip for making the transition from crib to toddler bed is simply not to rush it. Wait until your toddler shows signs of being ready, such as trying to climb over the crib rail. Your toddler expressing interest by asking for a big boy or girl bed may also indicate it’s time to make the move. While there is a wide age range, many parents choose to make the switch to a toddler bed when their child is 18 months to 3 years old.

2. Use a convertible crib: Many cribs are built to easily transition from crib to toddler bed/daybed and then full-size bed, keeping your child well rested well into their teen years. In addition to being convenient and economical, using a 4-in-1 crib can help make the transition easier because the bed will still be familiar to your little one. Plus, you can use the same infant crib mattress as your toddler mattress. Simply purchase and install a toddler/daybed rail, sold separately.

3. Ensure safety: Whether you are using a convertible crib or purchased a separate toddler bed, it’s important to make sure your child’s sleep place is safe. Many toddler beds come with built in rails, and you can also purchase separate rails that are compatible with most toddler beds. Still worried about your toddler escaping their bed during the night? A few pillows on the floor can do wonders to help protect those late-night/early-morning falls.

4. Minimize distractions: Now that your child is no longer restrained by crib rails, you may want to consider bedroom minimalism—at least for the time being. By storing toys and other distractions in a separate room, your child won’t be tempted to get out of bed and play instead of falling asleep. Of course, you can give your child a few comfort items, like favorite stuffed animals, to cuddle with during the night.

5. Make it a big deal: One way you can prepare your toddler for a big-kid bed is by talking it up! Make it a fun transition by telling them what a big boy or girl they are, and making it seem like an accomplishment for them to sleep all night in their very own “big kid” bed.

6. Let your child choose bedding: Another way to make the transition a positive experience for your child is to let them take ownership of a few things, such as bedding. By letting your child select their favorite sheets, pillow and blanket, you are letting them take charge of a part of their bedtime. Plus, it’s a fun reward for sleeping well in a big kid bed.

7. White noise: Whether or not you used a white noise machine for your child in their crib, you may want to consider one now as a comforting part of your child’s nighttime routine. White noise can also help drown out distractions from other parts of the house, minimizing the temptation for your child to get up and check out what’s happening around them.

8. Ready to wake: A ready-to-wake clock can also help encourage some children to remain in bed until morning. The clocks are programmed to change color at a time you’ve selected to indicate that it’s okay to get up. This can help your child know whether it’s morning time, or encourage them to go back to sleep if it’s still the middle of the night.

9. Don’t double up: Moving your child from a crib to a big kid bed is a big deal, so it’s often better to tackle it by itself. Avoid making the switch when your child is undergoing other big transitions, such as potty training or welcoming a new sibling. You may also want to avoid switching to a toddler bed if your child is sick, teething or otherwise unusually uncomfortable.

10. Manage your expectations: Finally, a tip for parents and caregivers. Don’t expect your child’s first nights in a toddler bed to be easy. (Though if it is—hooray!) More often than not, you are in a for a few rough nights of your toddler fighting bed time and repeatedly getting out of bed during the night. Stick with it, and your child will get used to their new routine and (hopefully!) sleep through the night again.

Need some baby proofing tips for the rest of your house? Read our Baby Proof Chic blog post.

Are you interested in a new youth bedroom design to go along with your toddler’s new bed? Read our Crazy for Kids’ Rooms blog post.

Learn about Better Bedtime Habits for the entire family.