Moving from Crib to Bed

Is your child ready to move into their very own big kid bed? How do you know when it’s the right time to make the move?

There are just a couple of guidelines your child should be at least 12 months old. If they can climb out the crib then you should consider making the move.

Personally I think the move it easier the younger your child is. If you leave it too late your child may not want to make the switch, toddlers (especially spirited ones) can really get very attached to things, which may make the move a tough one.

Here are some ideas to help you make a smooth transition from crib to bed.

If you have enough space have the crib and the bed in your child’s bedroom at the same time. Let your child play on the bed and get used to having it in the room.

Let your child choose their new bedding and let them help make the bed. Encourage your child to put their stuffed toys to bed in the new bed.

Some people initially try putting their child down for naps and a couple of days later night as well. Though ask your child if they want to spend the night in the bed from the first day, you never know they may really want to.

If you’re unable to have your child’s crib and bed in their bedroom at the same time. Make the switch in the morning, spend some time playing in your child’s room, play on the bed, and let your child help get the bed covers on the bed.

You may want to put a bed guard on the side of the bed; this is stop your child from falling onto the floor. If you don’t get a bed guard make sure you put some pillows onto the floor next to the bed. You don’t want your child falling out of bed and hurting itself and not wanting to go back in.

Do expect your child to get out of bed, they no have a freedom to get out of bed if they wish and I’m sure they will!

When they do get out, take them straight back to bed, don’t engage in conversation (just say ‘it’s nap/night time’). Repeat as many times as it takes.

Child can initially get out of bed many, many times and make you wonder if you did the right thing! Feel assured that it happens to most children but usually settles down in two or three days. Though you may wonder why on earth you considered moving them to a bed at all! It’s important to be consistent with taking them back to bed. You may need to do this for up to a week! hang in there it will get easier i promise.

Remember to make sure that your child’s room is safe for them and it ‘s a good idea to keep tempting toys out of the way for a little while.