Parents with a young toddler who sleeps in a crib need to know when it is time to transition their child to a regular bed. Most children between the ages of 18 months and three years are able to make that transition, according to Keep Kids Healthy. Though she may be ready physically, she may be afraid to give up the security of her crib. Help her get excited about becoming a big girl and get her involved picking out her new bed. By asking her what bedding she would like, she may become more emotionally invested in transitioning from her baby crib to a "big girl" bed.
Step 1
Watch your toddler. If he is able to climb out of his crib, you should transition him to a regular bed or a toddler bed. If he is able to climb out of the crib even after you have lowered the crib’s mattress to its lowest level, he needs to transition into a regular bed, according to the Baby Center.
Step 2
Observe your toddler when she is in her crib. If she is becoming more active and is too big to sleep comfortably in a crib, begin transitioning her into a regular bed, according to the Baby Center.
Step 3
Measure your toddler. If he is at least 36 inches tall, this is a good time to move him to a regular bed, according to the Health Center.
Step 4
Transition your toddler to a regular bed as she begins potty training, according to the Health Center. She needs to be able to get out of bed quickly so she can make it to the bathroom on time in order to avoid an accident.
Tips and Warnings
- Help her make the emotional transition from her crib to a bed by making a big deal about being a "big girl." Disassemble the crib and put it away if you need to remove the visual reminder and make it easier for her to switch to a bed.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
