Transitioning Toddler to Big Bed

When Should I Transition My Toddler to A Big Bed?

Remove Safety Hazards from Their Room If You Transition Your Child to a Bigger Bed

When moving your child to a toddler bed, it is important that you make sure that your toddler’s room is safe so that they can’t hurt themselves.  A toddler bed allows your child the freedom to get up and roam around the house unsupervised, especially, if he or she is supposed to be sleeping at night and you are fast asleep.  If you still have a baby monitor handy, place it out of your toddler’s reach so that they can’t tangle themselves up in the cord.  The monitor will allow you to be able to hear when you child gets up out of bed and is moving around their room, so that you can go put them back to bed or allow them to come out of their room.  Ensure that you check these other safety issues in their room before you allow them to be unsupervised:

  • Install plug covers on all electrical outlets.
  • Secure the dresser to the wall so that if your child decides to climb, he or she doesn’t tip it over on themselves.
  • Pick up all small items that could pose as a hazard to your child.
  • Place a baby gate in their door way to prevent them from wondering around other parts of the house.
  • Move items that can easily fall over and hurt your child such as, lamps, floor lamps, ect
  • Put toys in the closet if you want to try and prevent your child from getting up to play when they are supposed to be sleeping.

Do You Have a New Addition Coming Soon and Need to Transition Your Toddler to a New Bed to Make Room for the New Baby?

Many parents transition their toddler to a new bed because they are expecting a new baby in a few months and need the crib for the new addition.  If you plan on transitioning your toddler to a new bed, it is best to ease them into the transition.  You should expect possible opposition from your toddler, especially, if they aren’t ready for the transition.  If possible, allow your child to lay in the new bed and sleep in it during nap time only so that they can get used to the idea slowly.  Begin the transition as soon as possible but no later than 6 to 8 weeks from your due date if you need the crib for the new baby.  Remember that a new baby can sleep in a bassinet for the first few months, so you have plenty of time getting your toddler to adjust to their new big girl/boy bed.

Dream On Me Classic Toddler Bed

Delta Cars Toddler Bed

 

Like these toddler beds? Click on the photo for more information.

When did you transition your child to a toddler bed?

Comments

6 responses to “When Should I Transition My Toddler to A Big Bed?”

  1. Pam from Two Loons Avatar

    Oh, does this bring back memories. My son was an absolute monkey and that made the decision very easy. Your tip about putting up a baby gate in the room is so important. Although my son managed to stay in his own room, my neighbor’s son actually was able to get outside. Frightening.

    Great tips!

  2. Kristl Story Avatar

    Love the line…”if your child is a monkey,” – our middle child was a monkey and the thud of him landing on the floor was an obvious sign that it was time for a real bed!

    1. Christy Avatar

      My middle child was my monkey and loved climbing out of his crib.

  3. Karen Dawkins Avatar

    Friends of ours didn’t secure the dresser to the wall and their two year old pulled it over on himself. He was banged up, but thankfully wasn’t hurt seriously. Other families aren’t so lucky. Thanks for a great reminder to young families.

  4. Shannon@Mishmash Mama Avatar

    Great tips! Do you have any for the reluctant cosleeper?

    1. Christy Avatar

      I had to use the cry it out method for my oldest son when I transitioned him to his bed. It was rough.