Transition from crib to bed safely and comfortably

As a mother, I am quite aware of all the stressful milestones that take place during the childhood and preschool years. One of these stressful times is the transition from a crib to a toddler bed. There are several tips and tricks you can use to make this transition smooth and safe for both you and your child.

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine when your child is ready to leave the crib. With this decision, it is important that you follow the child’s example. A sure sign is if your child can actually get out of the crib. This can pose a risk of injury to your child. At young ages, children often lack the coordination and stability to climb safely, not to mention the risk of falling several feet to the ground.

Children usually go from crib to bed between 18 and 36 months, according to experts. If they’re not coming out of the crib yet, there’s no need to rush. Dr. Laura Jana, a general pediatrician in Denver, Colorado, and one of Dr. Spock’s experts says that “there is no definitive answer to the question of when to move a child from a crib to a bed. Every family is different, and in many ways this problem boils down to a matter of opinion. ” One thing to keep in mind is that the longer a child stays in a crib, the more attached they will be to it and the transition to a bed can be more difficult.

There are a variety of things you can try to make things easier for everyone involved. Once you have determined that it is time to leave the crib, set a time frame for the transition period. The reason for doing this is that it is often easier for the child if he sees a bed placed in his room for a couple of days while he continues to sleep in his own crib. This allows them to adapt mentally.

The type of bed you transfer them to is strictly a personal preference. Many choose to place a mattress on the floor initially so that there are no accidental falls from the bed that are too high. There are thousands of different styles of beds available today, from toddler beds to single and larger beds. You can find themed beds, car-shaped beds, canopy beds, etc … The list is endless. Keep in mind that the fancier the bed, the more expensive it will likely be, also considering how old they will be in this particular bed.

Let them help create their own space. Take them shopping for bedding and accessories. Let them choose a special item that they can sleep with each night, such as a new teddy bear or another soft stuffed item. Toddler pillows are often a better and safer option than standard-size pillows, as they are more proportionate to the child’s smaller body. These ideas will comfort you as you try to adjust to your new sleeping arrangement.

Again, safety is always a priority. Make sure you have a means to prevent your child from falling out of bed, such as a railing. If your child’s head is against a wall, another great safety feature is the Big Kid Bed Bumper. This will help prevent nighttime bumps and boos as your child turns around and around in their sleep, creating a barrier between your child and their wall.

Gradually start letting them nap in the new bed during the day if they are still napping. This is also a great way to really stay awake as you “react” to your new bedroom. After several successful naps, start getting excited with them about how big they are now. Let them help you disassemble the crib and remove it from the bedroom. Make the whole experience exciting and happy.

To avoid wandering around the house, a door can be used to separate them from the rest of the house, either by placing it on your door or by placing it in a hallway so they can only access your room or your own room. Be sure to take all precautions regarding the protection of children in your home.

It is very important that you be patient and give it time. If you are relaxed and loving throughout the process, your child will do well and everyone will sleep very well.

To summarize all of this:

o The bedroom and house must be completely childproof.

o Make their rest area fun and interesting by allowing them to choose a decoration.

o Make sure there are comforting items in the room; night lights, stuffed animals.

o Reasonable transition period with a new bed in the room while the child is still in the crib.

o Start by making them sleep in the new bed for naps.

o Make sure to separate them from other areas of the house by using the door.

o Give it time.