Making the Move: Crib to Toddler Bed (Tips & Best Toddler Bed)

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Baby’s milestones will keep surfacing from as early as when the baby is born to when they spell out their name. The best you can do as a parent is embracing the change and encourage the little steps of development. On this note, you ought to attentively follow the journey and encourage good behavior along the way.

There are changes you will have to make such as moving your baby from the crib to the toddler bed. This might take a few attempts, and all you can do is be patient and watch the transition happen. So, how do you make this big move? Here are precautions, tips, steps and factors to consider for easy and sustainable action.

When to Know Your Baby Is Ready For the Move

Usually, babies can last in a crib for the first two years while some will stay for three to four years. There is no specific age when you should move the baby from the cradle. It all depends on the preparedness and several factors that might drive you to make a move.

Below are a few pointers to know that the baby is ready to leave the crib bed.

  • If a baby is climbing in and out of the crib. This habit shows they can quickly get in and out of the toddler bed by themselves.
  • If a baby is done with toilet training and you want them to use the toilet efficiently at night.
  • If a baby has shown interest in sleeping on an adult bed before and they liked it.

Precautions To Take When Transitioning To Toddler Bed

This is undoubtedly a matter of acceptance or denial for you baby. As a parent, you want to make the process as smooth and natural so that the baby can take it in positively. On the same note, you want to make sure the baby is safe in all aspects when making the change.

  1. First, you should ensure that the environment your baby will be sleeping is safe. That is by guaranteeing the doors, the windows, the bed and other furniture are safe around our child since they will be sleeping alone all night. For the windows, you can  install childproof safety locks, so the window opens just a little.
  2. Ensure other bedroom furnishings such as curtains are securely hooked to ensure the baby does not pull them down. Also, anything that is hanging on that your child can reach for should be removed or fixed higher. In short, anything that your child might try reaching for while on the bed should be removed.
  3. Any moving furniture such as drawers, stools or cabinets should be attached to the wall. This will ensure that the baby will fail on attempts to pull or push the items which could be a danger hazard. The bedroom should have no moving objects that could fall on your baby as they play.
  4. An additional but optional precaution would be to install a safety gate on the doorway. With this, you could leave the main door open and leave the safety gate closed to ensure the baby does not get out of the room. The closing latch should be on the outside for easy access when you want to check on the baby.
  5. At first, when the baby starts using the toddler bed, you may want to install a bed rail. As much as the baby has shown they can comfortably sleep in without falling, it is still essential to keep them safe. You can then remove it when you are sure the baby will not roll out of bed they sleep.

Selecting Your Toddler’s First Bed

One of the factors to consider when choosing a toddler bed is the construction. It has to be sturdy and guarantee to serve your baby for the next few years in excellent condition.

Also, ensure your toddler mattress fits the bed just right and does not leave open edges at the bottom.  And since toddler beds dimensions are circa 31 inches by 56 inches— your crib mattress works for your toddler bed too! This will make sure the baby is comfortable, and the baby will not be trapped in the gaps on the sides.

Another factor would have to be the design of the bed edges. They should be smooth and round to avoid sharp corners for baby’s safety. Also, beds with attractive designs and pictures might lure your baby to stay in bed and have a smooth transition. Keep an eye also on cute design fitted crib or toddler sheets to help with the transition also.

A toddler bed should have rails of both sides to ensure baby is safe as they roll and toss at night. When choosing these types of toddler beds, ensure the rails can be removed or changed so you will not have to but another bed without the rails when they get used to the bed.

If you’re on a tight budget our top pick for the best toddler bed is Dream on Me Classic Toddler Bed, a really great favorite for kids that are 4 or under. It’s easy to assemble, the frame, surrounding pieces, including the headboard and footboard, are wood. Read what other parents have to say about it and check latest price offer on Amazon.

Dream On Me Classic Toddler Bed – Best Crib to Toddler Bed

Your Role as the Parent

Transitioning from the crib to the bed will not be an easy task, but with the right attitude, you will be able to hack it. As a parent, you have to be patient with your child. Remember this is a new experience and it might take them longer to accept the move.

Avoid scolding your baby when they fail to do what you need. Make it easy for them by being calm and taking one step at a time. You might need to reassure your baby that they will be okay. You could also try staying in the room a few hours after they sleep and be there before they wake up to reassure them.

If you already have a bedtime routine for your baby, keep doing it to avoid making so many changes at the same time. That means if you read a book to the baby every other night, continue doing so in their new bed to make it easy for them.

Bottom Line

As expected, the transition might not be easy for you or your baby. The best you can do is take a step at a time and understand that it is a significant milestone for them. Remember not to force it so much to your baby and be sure they are ready for the move. Most importantly, take all the precautions to ensure your baby is safe all through the process.