What do you do when your toddler is ready to move out of the crib?
Moving into a big kid bed is a big step in the life of a toddler. Every toddler is different. There is no right or wrong time to move a toddler into a big kid bed. As a parent, you know your toddler best and can evaluate when you think he is ready to move out of his crib and on to the next stage in his life.
Signs of Toddler Readiness
It can be hard to tell when your toddler is ready to move into a big kid bed. Some toddlers begin to climb out of the crib, which can be dangerous. If your toddler has figured out how to climb out of her crib on her own, it is time to invest in a crib tent or move her to another bed.
Toddlers are learning to be independent. When your toddler is ready to move out of his crib, he has developed self soothing skills and can go back to sleep on his own when he wakes up in the middle of the night.
What is the Next Step?
Toddlers can be moved to a regular twin bed or a toddler bed. Toddler beds are great for toddlers who need a step between the crib and the twin bed. They are low to the ground so toddlers to not have to worry about falling out, and they can easily get in and out by themselves. Parents sometimes prefer twin beds because their toddler can use it long term rather than having to buy another bed down the road. Twin beds need a bed rail to prevent toddlers from falling out and getting hurt and they should provide a way for a toddler to easily climb out when they need to.
Make It Exciting
Moving to a big kid bed is a big step for a toddler. Build up the move ahead of time so that your toddler is excited about moving into a big kid bed and ready to give up the crib. Read books about being a big kid and talk to your toddler about what will happen when she moves into her new bed. If your toddler is reluctant to make the move, you may consider offering a small treat for each night she sleeps in the big kid bed in the beginning.
Consider Safety
Your toddler may be ready to move into a big kid bed before he is ready to be given free reign of the house. If you are nervous about your toddler climbing out of bed while you are sleeping and getting into trouble wandering the house on her own, you can set up a baby gate in the doorway to the bedroom. This enables you to leave the door open so you can peek in on your toddler while he is sleeping but prevents him from wandering around the house unsupervised.
