Something to remember when thinking about transitioning your child from a crib to a big kid bed is that there’s no rush. If your child isn’t ready, try not to force him/her and create a scary or bad experience. I’ve read that most children make their way to a big kid bed bed between the ages of 1 1/2 and 3 1/2, so if your child is coming up on any age in that range and hasn’t yet made the move to a toddler bed, I wouldn’t worry too much.
Here are a few tips to help make the transition easier on you and your child.
1. To help ease the transition, put the new bed in the same place that their crib was in.
We’re huge on routines in our house so, naturally, a new bed and a new bed placement would be scary for my daughter. By placing her new big girl bed in the same position as her crib, she’ll feel more at home and familiar.
2. Let your child pick out his/her new big kid bed, sheets, and comforter.
Toddlers love to be independent and make their own decisions, so why not take your little one to pick out his/her own big kid bed and bedding? KidKraft has some amazing options out on the market at really affordable prices. Take a look at some of our favorites like the Firetruck, Raleigh Bed and the pink girly toddler bed.
Make sure that you outfit the bed in comfortable waterproof sheets that aren’t too cold when the child first gets into their new bed. We recommend the BSensible standard fitted sheet. It stays put, is very quiet and is super soft. We actually have one in ivory and it’s my daughter’s favorite sheet. We also have a BSensible pillow case, which I also recommend.
Another great idea to make a big kid bed even more fun is to let your child choose a Zippy Sack comforter.
| Photo Credit: Kidkraft |
3. Throw a party!
It may sound silly, but try throwing your little one a “big kid bed” party. Just like “potty parties,” a big kid party can create enthusiasm for the first big night! Keep talking about the party in the week leading up to the event to keep it fresh in his/her mind.
My Suggestions of Things NOT to do:
1. As hard as it may be, try not to sleep in the new bed with your toddler. First of all, this is dangerous and secondly, you don’t want to create a reliance problem.
2. Don’t force your child to sleep in the big kid bed if he/she isn’t ready. This can create an emotional scar and could prolong the transition.
3. Don’t give up. If your little one just isn’t ready, try placing the toddler bed somewhere else in the room so they can start to sit on it, climb on it and eventually lay on it. Let him/her warm up to the idea slowly.
