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Moving from crib to bed

July 22nd, 2008 - crib to bed, elizabeth pantley, moving to a toddler bed, sleep, toddler beds

How to make the transition from crib to bed go more smoothly for your child

by: Elizabeth Pantley

Transition to Big Bed

  • A child typically moves from crib to bed between ages one and three.
  • If the crib rail is at nipple height when your child stands up, there is a possibility he could climb out of his crib.
  • A mattress on the floor, toddler bed or regular bed with rails are all good options for his first real bed.
  • Move the new bed into his room and do your bedtime reading in it, but allow him to have nighttime sleeps in the crib to help him get used to the bed gradually.
  • Make an event out of introducing the "big kid" bed. You may even want to throw a mini party.
  • Maintain your nightly bedtime routine and help your child develop a positive association with his new bed.

Moving from crib to bed is a milestone in your life as well as your child's. There is no precise time for making the transition, though typically it's between the first and third birthday. The key to success is to be patient and allow your child time to adjust to the change.

Why move a child from crib to bed?
If your child sleeps well in his crib, don't rush the change. Switching to a bed gives him more freedom, which can create new issues for parents, such as early morning wanderings. Here are the most common reasons to switch:

1. Your child learns how to climb. Move your baby out of his crib when the rail is at nipple level when he stands up inside – at this point it will be much easier for him to climb out.
2. Your child outgrows the crib. You may think your child is uncomfortable, but he could be quite content in his little nest. Children will usually let you know when it's time to move by asking for a bed.
3. Your child is learning how to use the toilet. Even if your child uses the toilet during the day, it's often a long time before overnight dryness happens. Still, it's a good idea to make the toilet accessible.
4. A new sibling is on the way. If your little one loves his crib, then ousting him to make room for the newcomer may add stress. But, if you feel the time is right, then make the change two months or more before your newborn arrives.

What kind of bed should my child move to?

There are a number of options for a child's first bed:

  • Toddler bed: These are small, low and child-sized. They have guard rails on all sides, and come in playful designs.
  • Regular bed: A common choice is a mattress, box spring and bed frame (with all sides protected from fall-outs). Consider a double or even larger to accommodate the night-reading ritual.
  • Mattress on the floor: A popular choice is a mattress or futon on the floor. This provides your little one with a big-kid bed, while helping prevent painful falls.
  • Bunk bed: Hold off on buying a bunk bed until your child is six years old, which is when the top bunk is considered safe.
How do you make the change?

Which approach is best for you will depend on your reasons for making the change, your child's personality, and the size of his room. Here are a few ways to help him make the transition from crib to bed:

1. Big-kid bed hoopla: Some children enjoy having an official Big Kid Day party. Set up the bed, decorate the room and add a few sleep-related gifts, such as books and stuffed animals.

2. One-step-at-a-time: Take the mattress out of the crib and place it on the floor in the same location. This gives your child the same sleeping surface and the same view of the room that he has grown accustomed to. Place guard rails around the sides to create a crib-like enclosure. Keep the same bedding and crib toys. This is a mid-step between the crib and a real bed.

3. The gradual introduction: Set up the new bed in the same room as the crib. Allow your child to play on the bed and nap there. Do your bedtime reading in the new bed, but allow him to have nighttime sleeps in the crib. This will help your child get used to the bed gradually.

4. Patience and encouragement: No matter which path you choose, be patient. Big steps toward growth often happen in spurts and your child may be excited to welcome the change one day, but wary of it the next. Maintain your nightly bedtime routine and help your child develop a positive association with his new bed, since he'll be sleeping there for many years to come.

Meet our expert:

Elizabeth Pantley is a mother of four and the best-selling author of eight parenting books, including: The No-Cry Sleep Solution and The No-Cry Discipline Solution. She is also a contributing author to The Successful Child with Dr. William Sears. Based in Washington, Pantley is the president of Better Beginnings Inc. (a family resource and education company) and a parenting expert for a variety of publications including: Parents, Parenting and Redbook. (www.pantley.com)