The reasons are numerous why to share the family bed with your child. Some parents choose this sleeping arrangement for convenience, some for added closeness with their child. But, a time will come when you will be ready to move your child to a toddler bed. When you make the decision to make the move, Baby Center advises parents that the length of time the transition will take depends on the child's age and how long you have been sharing your bed with him. Though it is important to be patient with the process, there are some ways to speed it along.
Start Slowly
Nobody wants to be kicked out of bed, especially a toddler who craves consistency and familiarity. When you decide it is time to transition your toddler into her very own big girl bed, start slowly. Begin by explaining to her the benefits of sleeping in her own room, like sleeping with all her stuffed animals or being closer to her sibling's room. Pregnancy-Info.net suggests starting the transition by encouraging your child to take naps in her big girl bed, but still sleeping in your bed at night. Another way to make the transition gradual is to move her mattress onto the floor in your bedroom for a few nights and then move it into her bedroom.
Get Him Involved
Let your child be involved in the process. The website, The Baby Corner, advises parents to let your toddler pick out his own bed or his own bedding. Your child will be so excited to have a special shopping trip just for him. Let him pick out a special stuffed animal or perhaps a safe object from your bedroom that he can take to bed with him for security.
Involve him in the process of decorating his bed with his new bedding or stuffed animals.
Star Chart
Pediatrician James Sears, on the website Ask Dr. Sears, suggests invoking a star chart in your house. Every night your child falls asleep in his toddler bed he gets a star on his star chart. Set a reward for a certain amount of stars. Your child will look forward to falling asleep in his bed so he can earn a star and get a reward. Eventually, he'll be comfortable sleeping in his "big boy bed" and you can phase out the star chart or use it as a reward for other transitions or chores.
Be Firm
Once you decide that your child is ready to spend the night in her room be firm. Baby Center reminds parents not to reward their children for crying by allowing them to come back into the master bedroom. Give your child plenty of comfort and support. Remind him that you are not far away. If it helps your child fall asleep, bring in your pillow and tell her that you will lie in her room with her until she falls asleep.
