Making the transition from a crib to a bed is a momentous occasion for your and your child. Elizabeth Pantley, author of "The No-Cry Sleep Solution for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Gentle Ways to Stop Bedtime Battles and Improve Your Child's Sleep," writes that you may want to make the switch if your child can climb out of the crib, is too large to sleep comfortably in the crib or if your child shows interest in a bed. Moving from the crib to a bed will be a success if you involve your child in the process.
Step 1
Make setting up the new bed fun for your child. Have your child help you move the pieces into his room and watch you put it together, recommends Linda Sonna, author of "The Everything Toddler Book: From Controlling Tantrums to Potty-Training, Practical Advice to Get You and Your Toddler Through the Formative Years." Take your child to the store and allow him to choose the sheets for his new bed. You can also encourage him to choose what toys he would like to put on his bed to give him a sense of ownership of his new sleeping space.
Step 2
Make sure the sleeping space is safe for your child. Robin Goldstein and Janet Gallant, authors of "The Parenting Bible: The Answers to Parents' Most Common Questions," recommends installing safety rails that will prevent your child from falling out of the bed. You may also consider placing the mattress on the floor for a few weeks to get your child used to sleeping in a space that does not have crib bars on it. If your child keeps toys on her bed, make sure to remove them before she goes to bed.
Step 3
Help you child get adjusted to his new bed. Your child may show initial excitement about sleeping in his big kid bed, writes Sonna, but then express displeasure when the time comes to actually go to sleep in it. Allow your child to get familiar with his new bed. Pantley suggests allowing him to put his favorite doll or stuffed animal to sleep during playtime to get him used to the idea of sleeping in a new bed. You can also try pretending to take a nap in your child's new bed to show him that it is a safe and comfortable space. If the transition is hard, continue offering support and comfort until your child gets used to it.
Step 4
Practice keeping your toddler in her bed. Chances are your child will be so delighted with her new-found freedom that she will not want to stay in her bed when it is time to sleep. Sonna suggests discussing the importance of staying in bed with your child so she clearly understands that she is expected to get into her bed and go to sleep. Do not making getting out of bed fun for your child. Instead, avoid conversation and gently lead her back to bed until she gets the message. Respond if your child calls for you or cries, but make it clear that it is time to go to sleep. Be consistent and persistent, and soon your child will stay in bed and go right to sleep.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure that everyone who cares for your child at bedtime knows the routine and rules so your child will go to bed on time and without a fuss.
- Remember safety when making the switch. Avoid putting large fluffy pillows and stuffed animals on your child's bed, and only use thin blankets.
Things You'll Need
- Bed
- Sheets
- Bed rails
References
- "The No-Cry Sleep Solution for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Gentle Ways to Stop Bedtime Battles and Improve Your Child's Sleep"; Elizabeth Pantley; 2005
- "The Everything Toddler Book: From Controlling Tantrums to Potty-Training, Practical Advice to Get You and Your Toddler Through the Formative Years"; Linda Sonna; 2002
- "The Parenting Bible: The Answers to Parents' Most Common Questions"; Robin Goldstein and Janet Gallant; 2002
