Everything You Need To Know About Transitioning Your Baby to a Toddler Bed
It’s true what they say. Your children grow up so quickly! One minute your little one is snuggled up in their tiny crib or bassinet and the next they’re ready for a toddler bed. While you know that all children eventually have to leave their cribs, you may be wondering what exactly the toddler bed transition process looks like. Are there things you need to keep in mind to make it as calm and stress-free as possible? Put simply, yes. Keep reading on for everything you need to know about transitioning your baby to a toddler bed.
Is your baby ready for a toddler bed?
While exciting, transitioning your baby to a toddler bed can be an emotional experience. It’s a monumental sign that they’re growing up and turning into a big kid instead of the little baby that you once held in your arms.
No child is the same when it comes to transitioning to a toddler bed. While some children are ready for the switch earlier than others, it’s important to look for signs in your own child to determine whether or not they’re ready. Children usually transition to a toddler bed between the ages of 18 months and 3.5 years old.
Safety first
The good news about your baby growing up is not having the same worries or fears associated with nighttime sleep that you may have had when they were a newborn. But there are still some important safety elements to keep in mind. If your child is over 90 cm tall, it may be time to transition them to a toddler bed to avoid them climbing out and injuring themselves.
While you may think that you can simply buy an adult bed at this point, experts recommend purchasing a bed that’s specifically designed for toddlers. This ensures that they can get in and out of bed without too much trouble.
It’s also a good idea to purchase a bed that has side rails to stop them from rolling out of bed while they sleep. The more protected your little one is at night, the better everyone in the house will sleep - mom included!
How to start the transition process
Transitioning to a new bed can be a very big deal for your child. Here are some things you can do to help the transition go smoothly.
- Choose the right time - Try to avoid periods involving lots of change such as welcoming a new baby brother or sister or starting a new school.
- Do your research - make sure your toddler is ready before making the leap.
- Keep bedtime the same - just because your toddler is changing beds doesn’t mean they need a new nighttime routine. Keeping this constant will help ease the transition.
- Be patient - Your child may wander out of bed for a cuddle or a glass of water. That’s okay! Transitioning to a new bed is a process.
Choose a bed you can trust
If your child is ready for a toddler bed, seek out beds that are made from loving, natural materials that support their growth and development. Browse our range of toddler bedding by clicking here. Happy sleeping!
