When your toddler grows too large for his crib or begins climbing out, it is time to move him to a more conventionally sized bed. But not being used to a regular bed, your toddler may take a fall during the night. Your prevention strategy starts with choosing the right bed.
Step 1
Move your little one to a toddler bed. This is a small bed made to hold a crib mattress, but it has slightly raised sides to keep the toddler secure. Toddler beds are often painted with the images of their favorite cartoon characters or made in the shape of a car or train locomotive.
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Step 2
Consider putting your toddler in an adult-sized twin bed and attaching a pair of bed rails. Some twin-sized bed frames are sold with optional rails that can be folded down or removed when your child no longer needs them.
Step 3
Create a "stopping" mechanism that prevents your child from rolling out of his bed. For example, put your child's bed in a corner. Roll up a long beach towel and tuck it under the mattress on the open side of the bed. This will lift the mattress on that side, making it difficult for the toddler to roll out.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider moving your child's mattress to the floor at first. This acquaints him with the idea of sleeping without boundaries, while also preventing falls.
- Lifetime events, such as the arrival of a new baby, can press you to remove your child from his crib before he is ready. Don't rush the move if you think your child would still do better in his crib. Never put a toddler on the top of a bunk bed, even if it has rails.
Things You'll Need
- Toddler bed
- Bed rail
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