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From Crib to Big Bed: Making the Transition
There comes a time in every child’s life when he moves from the baby crib into a bed. Making the transition can be tough for the child and the parents. Although there is no specific when or how to make the move, most children typically make the move between ages one and three.
Here are a few ways to know if your child is ready to move to a bed:
· The child is too big for the crib. This is perhaps the easiest way to tell it is time to move to a crib. The child has simply outgrown the crib and possibly having aches from being cramped in it.
· The child is too active for the crib. Careful, don’t rush out and buy a bed the first time your child climbs out of the crib. This may not mean the child is ready. First try lowering the crib mattress as far as possible to make the side rails higher. If the mattress has been lowered and the rails reach your child’s nipples, then it is time to move the child to a bed.
· The child has been potty trained. Once your child is out of diapers, there may be frequent night visits to the bathroom. To avoid accidents, you should make sure the child has a bed that allows him to go to the bathroom on his own.
· Pending arrival of a new baby. Many parents make the switch because they are expecting a new baby. In this case, move the toddler to the bed at least six weeks before the new baby arrives. This way the toddler will have time to adjust to the new bed and will not feel like the new baby is taking “his” crib. If the new baby will be sleeping in a bassinet, you can delay the transition until the infant is 3 or 4 months old.
· The child asks for a bed. Sometimes children just know that they are ready for a big bed. If your child specifically asks for a bed, chances are you will have fewer problems transitioning them than if the change happened for one of the other reasons.
Different children will adjust differently to moving from their crib into a big bed. There are a few different ways to transition as smooth as possible.
· Let your child pick the bed. Plan a special trip and get your child excited about picking out his own bed. If you aren’t buying a brand new bed, you could allow him or her to pick out the bedding they would like to have. Sleeping in something they like will help them adjust.
· Have a “Big Kid Bed Party”. Invite friends and family, decorate the room, and buy new stuffed animals. This will also help your child get excited about having a new bed.
· Gradually move from the crib to the bed. If your child’s room is large enough you can put the bed into his room before replacing the crib. Allow him to take naps in the big bed or even play in it. Read his bedtime story to him in the big bed. Over time he will get used to the new bed and over time will be able to spend nights in it.
· Put familiar bedding and toys on the bed. Giving your child a similar feel to his crib will help the adjustment.
Keep your bedtime routines the same. You may even want to lie down with your child for the first few nights. Continue to be patient and encouraging if your child does not adjust to sleeping in the new bed as quickly as expected. Remember that eventually all children adjust to sleeping in a bed, even it if takes some longer than others.
Written By: LaToya Irby