The Big Transition to a Big-Kid Bed

Joan Becker Friedman Nighttime Sleep, Toddler Sleep

Everything You Need to Transition to a Big-Kid Bed

When to Transition Your Toddler to a Big-Kid Bed

How do you know when your kid is ready to transition to a big-kid bed? While some parents make the switch as early as 18 months, there are a few very good reasons to hold off. Kids need boundaries. Before age three, most kids can’t comprehend the rules that go along with big beds. If they do “get” the rules (i.e., they need to stay in bed), they don’t have the impulse to actually stay in bed all night. They may do well temporarily but once they discover their new-found freedom, they’ll call out for you or get out and come to you at all hours of the night. You can get in the endless cycle of bringing your toddler back to his or her room multiple times each night. That’s really tough when you’ve got to be at work by 8:00 AM the next morning.

Why Transition to a Big-Kid Bed

Many parents rush the move as if it were a rite of passage to transition to a big-kid bed; a milestone to achieve by age 2 or 2-½. It may be a hurry to move right before a new baby arrives. But, most likely, the new baby will be in a bassinet for a few months. The new baby can also sleep in an inexpensive pack ‘n play for several months or a year. 

Many parents make the move at the first sign of climbing. Hold off! You still have lots of  ways to keep your clever toddler in the crib a little longer.

There are certain times or situations when it is less than ideal to make the switch. Avoid making the switch when:

  • Your child has made only one or two attempts to climb out of the crib
  • You’re just about to bring home a new baby
  • Your child is in the midst of potty training
  • Your child is just about to start preschool
  • You’re moving to a new house
  • You’re getting ready for a family vacation
  • You’ve got house guests

Don’t rush the switch because you’re feeling pressure from family members or friends. Don’t make the switch as a desperate attempt to resolve sleep problems. Undoubtedly, your attempt will backfire and exacerbate the issues. 

The Ways to Keep Your Toddler In The Crib

There are several things you can do to make that crib work for several more months, or even another year. 

  • Lower the crib mattress as low as it will go.
  • If you have a crib where one side is higher than the other, turn the crib around so the lower side is against the wall and the higher side is facing out. It’s hard to straddle the high side!
  • Remove the bumpers, animals or anything else in the crib that can be a “launching pad”.
  • Use a sleep sack. In fact, try a sleep sack that’s a bit small so that it’s really much harder to straddle the crib. If the sleep sack has a zipper, put the sleep sack on backwards so the zipper is in back.
  • Use your monitor’s talk back function. Catch your clever climber in the act. Each time there’s an attempt to climb, firmly say, “NO!”. Do this as many times as necessary to get your message across.
  • If your clever climber is still at it, despite everything you’ve done, pad the floor. Place cushions and pillows around the crib. If your kid manages to escape, make sure there will be a soft landing. If it happens repeatedly, it may be time for the big move.

The Right Time

How do you know when your child is ready?

  • Your child is 3-3-½
  • Your child keeps asking for a big bed
  • Your child repeatedly climbs out of the crib after you’ve tried all the above tactics.

You’re ready to make the switch! Now, what?

  • Prepare your child for what’s ahead by creating a storybook about the big bed. Or, you can read one of many storybooks like these.
  • Take your child shopping before the big move and let him or her pick a new comforter or bedding
  • Whether or not your child has a lovey, let him or her pick out a new stuffed animal to take to bed or include in a bedtime routine.
  • Toddler proof the bedroom. This is critical! If there’s a remote chance that you won’t wake up if and when your child gets out of bed, the bedroom has to be a totally safe space!
  • Position the bed in the space where the crib was.
  • If you don’t have a night light in the bedroom and you think your child might need one, get one. Make sure the bulb is yellow, orange or red. These are the colors that don’t suppress melatonin. This is the hormone that naturally rises at night and helps drive sleep.
  • Use side rails, even if one side of the bed is up against the wall.
  • Keep your bedtime routine consistent

On the day that you’re about to make the big move, hold a “family meeting”. Explain the rules that come with a big bed. Select three to four simple rules like:

  • Get in bed when it’s time.
  • Close your eyes and go to sleep.
  • Stay in bed until morning….when mom or dad say it’s ok to get out of bed (or the toddler clock changes colors)

Many parents find it helpful to create a sticker chart that includes these simple rules. Celebrate that first big night with balloons, a cupcake or some other treat. The next morning, offer a small reward (and a sticker) for following the new rules.