At 18 months of age, some children are ready to make the switch from crib to toddler bed. If your toddler has shown an interest in climbing out of his crib, a toddler bed is a safer sleeping arrangement. Some children are excited to make the move to a bed, but others need a little more encouragement.
Step 1
Explain to your toddler that he is a big kid now and he does not need a baby bed anymore. Congratulate him for reaching this milestone and let him show off his bed to friends and family. He may enjoy calling a grandparent or another relative to share the news about his bed.
Step 2
Make the bed inviting. If your toddler has a favorite animal or cartoon character, consider buying bedding in a related theme. If possible, go shopping together and let her pick out bedding that she likes.
Step 3
Develop a bedtime routine if you have not already and stick to it as often as possible, so your toddler will know what to expect each night. Keep the activities before bedtime relaxing to help him wind down and get ready for sleep. You might give your child a bath, read a story or spend time quietly talking about your day.
Step 4
Let your child keep any favorite objects from his crib. If he has a favorite baby blanket, for example, let him take it to his new bed to ease the transition, recommends BabyCenter expert Deborah Lin-Dyken. A small stuffed animal or doll may also comfort your child and help him sleep at night, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Step 5
Place your child in his toddler bed and tell him goodnight. If it is important to you that he learn to go to sleep on his own, try not to linger in his room too long. Give hugs, kisses and reassurance, and then leave the room. If he wakes during the night, quickly and quietly let him know everything is okay, recommends the Nemours Foundation, and then leave him to fall asleep on his own.
Tips and Warnings
- Unless your child is too active to safely stay in a crib or you need him out of the crib for a new baby, consider putting the toddler bed off for a while if he seems extremely opposed to the idea. If your child frequently has trouble sleeping or cries a lot at night, talk to his doctor to get suggestions.
- Choose a toddler bed with guardrails to keep your 18-month-old from falling out of bed or purchase guardrails if your child sleeps in a regular bed. Remember that your toddler will now have the ability to get out of bed at night. Make sure your home is as safe as possible in case he roams while you sleep.
Things You'll Need
- Toddler bed
