When you are ready to transition your toddler from his crib into a toddler bed, you might find some resistance to the change from your strong-willed toddler. Making the switch to a toddler bed from his warm and secure crib can be frightening to him, and you might find him abusing the new-found freedom of being able to get out of bed on his own. Making the transition with plenty of fanfare and encouragement can help make getting your toddler to sleep in a toddler bed a positive experience for both of you.
Step 1
Bring your toddler to the store to pick out his new bed and bedding set. Make the choosing of the bed a special treat, and allow him to pick whatever he wants. Making a big deal over the new bed can make it a novelty item, and something that he is excited to sleep in each night. Use the phrase "big boy" while choosing his new bed, so he understands that it is a progression.
Step 2
Place the toddler bed where her crib used to be, advises Deborah Lin-Dyken, pediatric sleep disorders expert for Babycenter.com. Moving the toddler bed to a new location may confuse her and cause her to feel less secure. By placing the bed in the same location as her crib, you can keep the same basic routine, so it's less of a change.
Step 3
Follow the same bedtime routine as you had when your toddler was in a crib, suggests Dr. Laura Markham, Ph.D., of Pregnancy.org. Give baths, sing songs and read books as if she was going to sleep in her crib, only placing her in the toddler bed instead. In this way she'll understand that her new bed is still meant for sleeping.
Step 4
Choose a blanket or comfort item from the crib, and place it in the toddler bed. This can help ease the transition and help him feel comforted while in his new bed. Or choose a new comfort item from the store, and specify that it is only to be used in your toddler's new bed. A new stuffed animal or blanket might be incentive enough to keep her in her new bed.
Step 5
Place him back in bed wordlessly when he tests his new freedom and gets out of bed. This sends the message that it is bedtime, not playtime, and he won't receive attention by coming out of his room. After a few nights of the same routine, he's likely to realize that getting out of his toddler bed doesn't solicit a reaction, and will stay in bed and go to sleep.
