Transitioning to Toddler Bed

Toddlers may be ready to move from their crib into a bed with safety rails or a toddler bed between ages 18 months and 3.5 years—or when they reach a height of 35 inches or more. Often, however, it depends on your child’s readiness.

Some kids can climb out of their crib when they’re much smaller and, in those cases, you’ll need to make the transition sooner for safety’s sake.

Signs of readiness include:

  • Your child climbing out of the crib more than once
  • Your child is asking to make the switch to a bed.
  • Your child has started toilet training (and needs easy access to the toilet in the middle of the night).

So How Do You Make the Switch?

Moving to a bed can be a challenge because a young toddler may not want to stay put at first. To make the transition easier:

  • Keep a consistent bedtime routine—for example, a bath, a book (which you can now read while sitting on the bed), a lullaby, and a snuggle so that your toddler falls into a deep, relaxing sleep.
  • You may need to remain near your baby’s room the first few nights to gently encourage her to stay in her bed if she wanders out and to let her know that she’s just as safe in her bed as she was in her crib.
See also ...

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.

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