When to make the transition from a crib to a toddler bed:
They are close to 3 years old. Why?
At this age, they are more likely to have a better understanding of basic bedtime boundaries, such as staying in bed. When they are younger, they may not fully grasp the concept of staying in bed all night, especially when they are still developing self-regulation skills.
When they are closer to 3 years old, they are likely to have better impulse control, which can be very helpful in keeping them in bed. It is only natural that your toddler is going to want to explore their new freedom and test these boundaries. Their desire to discover new things can make them resist staying in one place, even when it's time to sleep.
They understand consequences. For example, if they get out of bed, they will be returned to bed immediately. For younger toddlers, any attention can be good attention.
They are no longer napping. Why?
This helps to create sleep pressure at bedtime, meaning that when they go to bed, they are more likely to want to go to sleep.
If they are not tired enough at bedtime, trying to get them to stay in their bed may be very difficult.
If they are still napping, ensure that they are not sleeping too much during the day and that there is a good amount of time between when they wake and bedtime.
They can climb out of their crib.
Have you tried lowering their crib to its lowest setting or moving them to a travel crib?
If you feel that you have tried strategies to keep them in their crib, but they are still able to climb out, it is now time to make the transition.
Even if you feel they may be too young, and/or you have concerns about their ability to stay in a toddler bed, it is a safety hazard and time to make the move.
Other reasons:
This may be a decision you make due to personal circumstances, such as needing the crib for a new baby.
They may also be showing other signs that they are ready to make this transition.
It is also important to mention that if they are sleeping well in their crib and not showing signs that they are trying to climb out, there is no need to rush moving them to a toddler bed.
Safety first!
Ensure that all dressers, closets, and larger furniture items are secured with an anti-tipping system.
Even small items of furniture can be dangerous to small children.
Childproof their bedroom:
Cover electrical outlets with safety caps or covers.
Use child locks on drawers and cupboards.
Remove loose power cords.
Window treatment cords should be up high and not within reach.
Remove any objects from their bedroom that could be dangerous or that you do not want them to have access to when you are not with them. This may include small toys or objects.
De-clutter their bedroom:
This not only helps to create a more peaceful sleeping environment, but it also removes any tripping hazards if your child (or you) are walking around their bedroom in the dark.
Consider securing other areas of your house:
Locking bathrooms and toilets.
Baby gates at stairs.
Putting any dangerous or poisonous household items out of reach and/or in a locked cupboard.
Use a monitor that has audio and/or video with sound that allows you to see/hear your child, especially overnight while you are sleeping.
There are also other options, such as toddler safety motion sensors, that connect to your smart phone and will alert you if they open their bedroom door.
Making the transition:
Get them involved:
Let your toddler be a part of the decision-making. Picking out the new bed, sheets, and even a stuffed animal to “keep them company” can make the change feel exciting rather than intimidating.
Personalize the bed with their favorite characters, colors, and soft blankets. A comforting environment can also help your toddler feel secure in their new space.
Setting up their bedroom:
Have their bed away from window treatments, windows, and heaters.
De-clutter their bedroom.
Make it safe, as I previously discussed.
Toddler alarm clocks:
When children wake up, they have no concept of time. And if their sleep pressure is low, they may think it is time to get up for the day.
A toddler alarm clock gives them a visual and audio cue to understand when it is time to stay in bed and when it is time to get up.
If using the night light feature overnight, try and use a red light as this is less likely to interfere with melatonin production, compared to blue light.
The Hatch and Gro Clocks allow you to program their sleep and wake time from your phone. And this can be very helpful if you are trying to extend their wake-up time in the morning or if they are wanting to sleep a little longer.
Be consistent!! If they get out of bed before their alarm clock changes color, return them back to bed.
This can be great to start using while they are still in their crib. But don’t worry if you haven’t, you can start using one at any time.
Stay Consistent with Routines:
Remain consistent with their bedtime routine. Toddlers thrive on consistency, and a familiar routine can ease them into their new bed.
Implement a bedtime chart:
This can help them understand what is expected at bedtime and overnight.
Keep it simple, realistic, and positive. For example, lay down, be as quiet as a sleeping bear, and stay in bed until your alarm changes color.
Make a bedtime rules poster and get your child involved. Go over it each night before bed but do it in a positive way.
Be patient and consistent.
Common issues and other considerations:
Getting Out of Bed:
It's natural for toddlers to want to explore their new freedom. Create clear boundaries by calmly returning them to bed.
Night Wakings:
You may notice more nighttime wakings after making the transition to a toddler bed, which is completely normal.
Provide reassurance, with a quick and calm response. However, avoid too much interaction or stimulation (talking, lights, bargaining to stay in bed, etc.), as this can reinforce the wake ups.
If your child will be using a duvet for the first time, you may need to help them learn how to find and replace it themselves.
Practice during their awake time and before bedtime.
If they want you to replace it overnight, guide them to where it is and help them put it back on. After a few nights, they should have the hang of it.
Toddler bed versus single/twin bed:
This is a personal preference and what you think is going to work best for your child and family.
If you make the decision to get a new bed, ensure it is not too high off the ground and use a firm mattress.
Toddler specific bed rails can also be helpful in preventing falls out of bed.
If you are needing support in making this transition, Little Slumber Sleep Consulting is here to help you and your family.