A Parent’s Guide to Transitioning Your Baby From Their Crib To A Toddler Bed

Are you ready to take the leap for your little one? The transition from crib to bed is a significant milestone in his development, but it can also be a daunting task for parents. Don't worry, though; we've got you covered with this comprehensive guide to help make the transition smooth and stress-free.

Signs your toddler is ready to switch from crib to bed

Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed marks a big step to independence for your child’s growth and development. However, it’s important to know when your child is ready for the change. 

Some of the common signs your toddler may be ready for a toddler bed include:

• Climbing out of their baby crib
• Showing interest in or asking for a toddler bed.
• They’ve outgrown their crib and are too big for it. 
• They’re currently potty training (or are potty trained). 

When to move from crib to bed?

The timing of switching from crib to toddler bed varies, but it usually occurs between the ages of 18 months to 3 years. But regardless of this, there’s no rush to make the switch as soon as possible. I started transitioning Artie to a toddler bed when he was two, but some children may prefer to stay in their cribs until they’re 3 years old, so there’s no rush.  

 

@brighterdayssleep Full caption is on Instagram. Need more consistent and independent sleep? Click on the link in my bio! I have 1 on 1 packages, calls, customizable sleep plans, and more! #babysleep #babysleeptips #babysleephelp #babysleepconsultant #babysleepcoach #sleepcoach #sleepconsultant #sleepconsulting #babies #baby #toddlers #toddler #toddlersleep #tiredtoddler #tiredbaby #tiredmom #tired #earlymorningsearlymorningwakeup #sleep #sleepy #inconsistent #noschedule #sleepschedule #mom #mommy #momhelp #5am #6am #independentsleep #independent ♬ original sound - Emma

 

How to transition from crib to bed?

1. Introduce the idea to your toddler

If you think your kid is ready for a toddler bed, introduce the idea and see what they think. For example, if you know a close friend or a family whose kid have a toddler bed, arrange a playdate with their parents. You can show your kid how fun it is to sleep and play in a toddler bed, and choose their own toddler bedding set!

When you’re introducing your kid to a toddler bed, it’s important to be patient and listen to your kid. Ask questions in simple terms or show them a real-toddler bed that they might love. If your partner is at home with you, you can loop them into the conversation too!  

If they’re ready, find ways to make the process more fun! After your kid decides that yes, they want a toddler bed, start planning their room. Look up ideas on Pinterest and list down what you need to get. You can go to IKEA over the weekend for furniture shopping, or to get inspo. 

Some of the things you can get are:

• Toddler bed frame
• Toddler bedding set
• Storage boxes
• A rug for their room
• A floating shelf for books
• A bean bag chair 
• A sleep training clock

2. Prepare the room

Besides shopping for a toddler bed and other room essentials, it’s important to toddler-proof their room before making the transition.

Here are some tips to prepare your toddler’s new room:

1. Cover all electric outlets
2. Ensure all tall furniture is secured properly to the wall.
3. Remove items that can be choking hazards
4. Keep loose cords out of reach
5. Place padding on sharp corners
6. Remove or secure floor rugs 
7. Look out for small and sharp objects 

 

@sara.macinnes My heart! 🥺 #toddler #mumtok #mumsoftiktok #toddlerbed #foryou #fyp #foryoupage #homemaker #viral ♬ Good Vibes (Instrumental) - Ellen Once Again

 

3. Toddler-proof your toddler bed 

As your kid makes the transition, it's important to ensure that they're safe. Install a bed rail guard to prevent falls at night. They act as a protective barrier that attaches to the side of the bed and it adds a layer of security between your toddler and the room around them.

On that note, if you're still shopping for your toddler’s room essentials, here are some things to look out for in toddler bed rail guards: 

1. Safety standards and certifications: Make sure the bed rails meet current safety standards and certifications and comply with the  Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the US. 
2. Non-toxic materials: The bed rail should be made from toxic materials in case your toddler puts their mouth on it. 
3. Bed size and type: Check if the bed rail fits the size and type of your bed. 
4. Installation tips: Ensure your toddler bed rail is easy to install and attach to your kid’s bed. The instructions should be concise and clear so that you can ensure safety for your toddler. Check if your bed rail installation process needs any specific tools that you might need to buy later. 
5. Height and length: The bed rail guard should be tall enough to prevent your child from falling out of their bed or climbing over it. At the same time, it should fully cover the length of your bed. 
6. Material quality: Your bed rail guard should be sturdy and made from high quality materials so that it won’t collapse or break during use. 
7. Convenience: Your bed rail guard should be easy to use and access during bedtime routines or when you need to change your kid’s bedsheets. They should easily swing down or fold away.
8. Comfortable design: The bed rail guard should be padded or feature a soft material that’s safe for your kid to use.  

 

@the_useful_mom @ComfyBumpy #guardrail #bedrail #toddlerbed #toddlersleep #toddlertok #toddlersoftiktok #momtok #momsoftiktok #dadtok #dadsoftiktok #parentsoftiktok #comfybumpy ♬ original sound - The_Useful_Mom

 

If you’re looking for a bed rail guard, why not try ours? Our ComfyBumpy bed rail guards are safe, easy to install, and fit most bed sizes. Plus, they’re also easy to use. When you wanna cuddle with your kiddo before bed, just pull it down and you’re good to go. 

4. Gradually introduce them to their new toddler bed

Introduce the toddler bed to your child while still using the crib. Move some of their toys into their new bed for some familiarity. Let them explore and play on the bed during the day to familiarize themselves with it.

You can also make the introduction more fun with games and involving your kid in small chores for their room. At this stage, encourage more playtime and let them take more naps in their room too!

5. Establish a comfortable bedtime routine

Create a comfortable bedtime routine for kids in their new bed. It’s important to have a consistent bedtime routine because it teaches your kids how to have structure in their lives and helps them relax before bed. Plus, it also teaches them when it’s time to head to bed for a good night’s sleep. 

Here are some of the ways to establish a bedtime routine:

1. Winding down with calming activities: You can do puzzles together, read them a story, or sing them to sleep thirty minutes before bed. 
2. Setting a specific time for bed: That way, your toddler can get enough hours of sleep.
3. Create a soothing environment: Make the toddler bed more inviting and comfortable with soft pillows and blankets. 
4. Reduce stimulation: Dim down the lights and make noise minimal to promote relaxation. Try to avoid using your phone or tablets before bed as well.
5. Include their comfort items: Allow your child to choose a comfort object, like their favorite plushie or a quilt. If your kid has trouble sleeping, you can consider a weighted stuffed animal to help reduce their anxiety before bed. 
6. Positive affirmations: Offer gentle, reassuring words that it's safe to go to sleep and that you'll be nearby. Positive affirmations can help ease any anxiety about sleeping in a new bed. 

 

@babysleepdr For more detail, find this post in my Instagram reels 🤍 #toddlersleep #toddlertips #toddler #momsoftiktok #sleeptraining ♬ Night Changes (Live Acoustic Session) - One Direction

 

Consistency is key to helping your child feel secure in their new sleeping environment. 

6. Monitor and adjust

While your kid adjusts to their new toddler bed, it’s important to be prepared for any setbacks.

If they're struggling to sleep in their new bed, incorporate relaxing activities into a comforting bedtime routine. Run a bath to help them wind down, or read them a book before bed. 

Another tip is to keep a close eye on them. On bad nights, your kid might slip out of bed and go to you for comfort. In this case, reassure them and stay in their room for a bit. Be patient with them, and stick to a consistent routine. 

For parents struggling with their kid waking up earlier than usual during the crib to bed conversion, you can work on creating boundaries and rules with your kid. For example, if they woke up an hour before you did, you can have a rule where your kid can play quietly in their room until you wake up. This helps teach your kid patience. 

When do I not transition my child to a toddler bed?

Most toddlers love a consistent bedtime routine, and starting the switch to a toddler bed can disrupt it. Here are some of the signs to know when you shouldn’t make the switch just yet:

• If you’re expecting another little one: Instead, borrow or get another crib until your toddler is ready for the switch. 
• If people are telling you to make the switch right now: At the end of the day, it all depends on your toddler and their readiness for a change. 
• If you think it’ll fix their sleep problems: Your toddler may end up having more sleep difficulties if you make the change too soon. 

By following the tips outlined in this guide and paying attention to your child's cues, you can make the transition a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved. Remember, every child is different, so trust your instincts and take it one step at a time.

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Featured image via Freepik