Transitioning to a toddler or twin bed from a crib is a milestone for children. Although the sides of the crib prevent your child from falling out while sleeping, a bed is much less restrictive. If your child rolls around a lot while she sleeps, she may fall out of her bed as she adjusts. Safety precautions help reduce the chances of your child falling from her bed, both at night and during play times.
Step 1
Purchase the bed type that best fits your child's needs. Consider a toddler bed for a young child, which is lower to the ground and has built-in rails or sides to prevent falls. Choose a sturdy bed that doesn't wobble to avoid accidental falls during daytime.
Step 2
Choose a low-profile mattress if you are concerned about your child falling out of the bed. A lower mattress means she is closer to the ground. The lower mattress also makes it easier for your child to climb into the bed, reducing the risk of her falling as she gets into bed.
Step 3
Place the mattress directly on the floor to give your child a chance to get used to the sleeping arrangements. If he does roll off of the bed, he'll already be right next to the floor so he won't get hurt. Leave the mattress on the floor until your child can sleep on it without rolling off the side.
Step 4
Place the mattress on the bed frame, positioning the bed away from dangers. Avoid placing it near windows or items that your child may reach for when she is supposed to be sleeping. For example, if a shelf of toys is placed near the bed, she may try to reach a toy from her bed, resulting in a fall.
Step 5
Install guard rails along both sides of the bed, even if one side is along the wall. Your child may become wedged between the mattress and wall if you do not put a guard rail on both sides. Make sure the guard rail is snug against the mattress.
Step 6
Teach your child safety rules for being in the bed during daytime. Establish a rule against jumping or climbing on the bed during play time to prevent falling off the bed.
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