When should you transition your toddler to a bed?

Your once tiny baby is now outgrowing the largest sleep sack available, stretching from end to end in the crib and telling you they want a big bed. It is time to transition your toddler to a bed! Read more to learn when you should transition your toddler to a bed and how to prepare for a successful transition.

Readiness checklist for toddler bed transition

Before you make this next step, review the list and ensure the timing is right. Making the move too early can cause unwanted sleep disruptions.

• Recommend 3+ years old: This is when your child developmentally understands boundaries and expectations that will keep them safer in their bed 
• Crib climber: If your child has consistently attempted climbing out of the crib or the crib rail is lower than your toddler’s chest try these steps first. The AAP recommends making the transition if climbing becomes a safety concern.
  • Mattress lowered to the ground with the crib around it
  • Sleep sack turned inside out and backward
  • Taller decorative back of crib facing out
• Your child communicates and shows signs they are ready for this milestone!
• Avoid making the transition 3 months before/after a life-changing event (ex: move, new sibling, daycare/school beginning) 

toddler bed vs big kid bed

Many cribs are designed to transition into a toddler bed by removing the sides. If your child’s crib has this capability, it is a good place to start. However, do not hesitate to go straight to a standard bed. If you do not have a transitional crib, I wouldn’t purchase a separate toddler bed. If they’re ready, they’re ready!

Preparation is Key

• Choice: The more invested your child is in the decision-making, the smoother it will go. Give them ownership when picking out new sheets for their big bed. Allow them to select their own bedtime books. Have them pick out their pajamas. Choice empowers your child in a positive way!
• Build Excitement: This is a big deal! So make it one. Prepare the room together and make it fun!
• Safety First: Childproof the entire room. Cover all outlets. Secure furniture to the wall. Remove cords. Check the monitor is in a good position. 
• Expectations: Have a family meeting to communicate boundaries for staying in bed and when it is acceptable to get out of bed. Use a color/sound to signal it is okay to get out of bed. Consider implementing a ticket system to incentivize the new rules if they are getting out of bed overnight or early morning.
• Role Play: Practice these expectations by using a favorite doll or stuffed animal to demonstrate how it works.

more toddler bed tips

• Make them feel safe- If you have not already, introduce a lovey or stuffed animal to comfort and soothe your child if they wake in the night. Discuss how their lovey is there to protect them in their big bed. 
• Consistent, predictable routine- Toddlers thrive off of schedules and knowing what comes next. Don’t change their routine in this process. Keep some things the same and familiar!
• Age-appropriate schedule- If your toddler is having trouble falling asleep and staying asleep in their new environment, ensure they are meeting sleep needs for their age. Too much or too little sleep can impact how long it takes them to fall asleep.

I’ll leave you with my biggest takeaway from my personal experience transitioning my 3.5 year old to her big girl bed last month. WAIT as long as you can. Readiness is key! Hold off until they are old enough to understand this big milestone and change. You will both be celebrating together! 

Sleep resources to help your family

Facing sleep challenges with your baby or toddler? We work 1:1 with families providing personalized sleep coaching starting at 4 months of age and up to age 4. We have multiple options that can help you get your child’s sleep on track!

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