Make the transition from crib to bed safe and smooth

As a parent, I am well aware of all the stressful milestones that take place during the toddler and preschool years. One of these stressful times is the transition from a crib to a big boy or girl bed. There are several tips and tricks you can use to make this transition go smoothly and safely for both you and your child.

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine when your child is ready to leave the crib. With this decision, it is important that you follow the example of the child. A sure sign is if your child can really get out of the crib. This may pose a risk of injury to your child. At young ages, children often don’t have the coordination and stability to climb safely, not to mention the risk of falling several feet to the ground.

Children typically move from crib to bed between 18 and 36 months of age, according to experts. If they are not yet out of the crib, there is no need to rush. Dr. Laura Jana, a general pediatrician in Denver, Colo., and one of Dr. Spock’s experts, says “there is no definitive answer to the question of when a child should be moved from a crib to a bed. The situation Every family is different, and in a lot of ways, this issue really comes down to a matter of opinion.” One thing to consider is that the longer a child stays in a crib, the more attached they will be to it and the more difficult the transition to a bed can be.

There are a variety of things you can try to make it easier for everyone involved. Once you’ve determined it’s time to get out of the crib, set a time frame for the transition period. The reason for doing this is that it is often easier for the child if he sees a bed made up in her room for a couple of days while he continues to sleep in her own crib. This allows them to mentally adapt to it.

The type of bed you transition to is strictly a personal preference. Many choose to place a mattress on the floor initially so there are no accidental falls from the bed that are too high. There are thousands of different styles of beds available today, from toddler beds to twin and larger beds. You can find themed beds, car-shaped beds, canopy beds, etc… The list is endless. Keep in mind that the fancier the bed, the more expensive it will likely be, also considering how many years they will be in this particular bed.

Let them help create their own space. Take them shopping for bedding and accessories. Let them choose a special item that they can sleep with each night, like a new teddy bear or other soft stuffed item. Toddler-sized pillows are often a better and safer option than standard-sized pillows, as they are more proportionate to the child’s smaller body. These ideas will comfort them as they try to adjust to their new sleeping arrangement.

Once again, safety is always a priority. Make sure you have a way to keep your child from falling out of bed, like a bed rail. If the child’s bed is against the wall, another great safety item is the Big Kid Bed Bumper. This will help prevent late-night bumping and booing as your child tosses and turns in their sleep, creating a barrier between your child and the wall.

Gradually start letting them nap in the new bed during the day if they are still napping. This is also a great way to stay awake while they “react” to their new bedrooms. After several successful naps, begin to get excited with them about how big they are now. Let them help you disassemble the crib and move it out of the bedroom. Make the whole experience exciting and happy.

To prevent them from wandering around the house, a gate can be used to separate them from the rest of the house, either by placing them at the entrance or placing them in a hallway so that they can only access their room or their own room. Make sure all precautions are taken regarding the safety of children in your home.

It is very important that you have patience and give it time. If you are relaxed and loving throughout the process, your child will do well and everyone will sleep very well.

To sum all this up:

o The bedroom and the house must be completely childproofed.
o Make their sleeping area fun and interesting by letting them choose some decorations.
o Make sure there are comforting items in the room; night lights, stuffed animals.
o Reasonable transition period with a new bed in the room while the child is still in the crib.
o Start by having her sleep in the new bed for naps.
o Be sure to separate them from other areas of the house by using a gate.
or give it time.