The transition between a crib to a toddler bed is a huge step in both the lives of your children and you as their parent. It can also be a nerve-wracking experience for all parties involved, but here are the basics of what you need to know to conquer this next step. 

When to start the transition

Like many other developmental steps, the time to start the transition is different for every child. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that once the railing is below their chest, they can more easily climb out and injure themselves, so it is important to make the switch by that point. That being said, the transition can take place anywhere from 18 months to 3 ½ years old. Avoid doing it at a time when your child already has a lot of change going on. Typically most experts suggest waiting until after their 3 birthday if possible. Keep in mind that the longer they stay in the crib, the more attached they will be and therefore the harder the transition will be in the long run. 

Choosing the Best Toddler Bed

There are many options for what to use for a toddler bed. Some parents just put the mattress on the floor, while others use a twin bed and put guardrails on it. However, the recommended solution is to use an actual toddler bed. These beds are low to the ground, which helps young children climb in and out without getting hurt. Also, toddler beds often come in fun shapes and sizes like a car bed or a princess bed, which can make the transition easier if your child sees the cool bed that they get to move into. Additionally, these types of beds use a full-size crib mattress too, so you can reuse your child’s current mattress if it is still in good shape.  

Another option is a convertible crib, which are cribs that are built to transform into a toddler bed. This can be an ideal solution, especially if your child starts to show resistance to change early on. 

Child-Proofing Your House

Now that your child can move around at night, they will most certainly be taking advantage of it. Therefore, you need to make sure your house is as safe as possible for little wandering feet. 

The first way to mitigate the risk of exploration is through prevention. It is ill-advised to lock their door because it can pose a fire risk, but you can have a monitor alert you when they leave their room. 

However, prevention does not eliminate the risk, so the next step is child-proofing other parts of your house. This includes adding a gate to both the top and bottom of the stairs and safety latches on drawers, so your child can’t pull them out and climb on them. Also, it is important to hide away any sharp objects in the kitchen or office area, just in case. 

Tips and Tricks

The move can be stressful for your child, so here are some ways to prevent the change from becoming overwhelming.

One way is to have your child assist you in picking out the bed as well as some new sleeping accessories like sheets, stuffed animals, night lights, comforters, and pillowcases. This will make the move more appealing and allow them to be involved in the transition process. 

Another tip is maintaining your bedtime routine. By keeping the change to a minimum, you will help mitigate the newness your child will have to deal with. If you do not already have an established bedtime routine, start creating one before the move to assist your child during the transition. This could include reading a story, brushing their teeth, putting on pajamas, and nighttime hugs. This will let your child feel grounded during the change, and the ultimate change from a crib to a bed won’t seem so daunting. 

Finally, introduce the idea of transitioning beds through stories. This will allow them to become excited about the new adventure in their life. 

Even though this transition might be overwhelming at first, it is an easily conquerable problem once you know the basics. Just remember to take it one step at a time, and not rush because it is such an exciting step in all of your lives. 

If you want to read more information on how to help your child transition into adolescence, visit The Learning Experience for your parenting needs. If you’re looking to find a daycare center for your child, you can visit, Find a TLE Center and choose the best daycare options for you and your child.