Eldon Broady

When To Move Your Baby From a Crib To A Toddler Bed

Most children are sleeping in a toddler bed by the age of three, but when and how you make that transition largely depends on your child's physical and emotional readiness. If you're searching for toddler information on transitioning your tot from a crib to a toddler bed, here are a few signs that your child may or may not be ready for this big milestone.

Signs Your Toddler Is Ready to Move On To a Toddler Bed

Your toddler consistently climbs or crawls out of the crib.

Most toddler information you find out there will advise that once your little one attempts to climb out of the crib, it's time to make the transition. While this may be true, it's also important to first consider alternative options, such as lowering the crib mattress to the lowest position possible, removing crib bumpers, or using a sleep sack at night.

Your toddler is physically too big for a crib.

If your toddler is happy in his crib until he's three, that's great! But at some point, he may grow to become too large to sleep comfortably in his crib. Or, he may be too heavy for you to lift in and out of the crib for naps and bedtime. If this is the case, it may just be more practical to move him into a toddler bed.

Your toddler asks to have a bed.

If your little one is interested in the prospect of having a "big kid bed," it's probably time to start considering the option!

Signs Your Toddler Is NOT Ready For a Toddler Bed

Your toddler still has sleeping problems.

If your toddler still wakes frequently throughout the night or wakes too early, transitioning him to a toddler bed could exacerbate these issues or cause more problems.

Your toddler doesn't respect boundaries yet.

Crib rails physically keep a child inside the crib, but if your toddler isn't ready to adhere to imaginary boundaries (i.e. staying in bed at night), he may not be ready for a toddler bed just yet.

Your toddler is still happy to be in a crib.

If your little one isn't feeling pressured to move on to the big kid bed, then why should you? Allow him to let you know when he's ready. Your whole family will likely sleep a lot better for it.

Ask Your Doctor For More Toddler Information On Cribs and Toddler Beds

If you have doubts about when you should make the transition from a crib to a toddler bed, consult with your pediatrician. He or she should be able to provide informed and educated advice that you can trust.

Author Resource:

Eldon Broady writes about a social networking app connecting women across fertility and motherhood. You can find his thoughts at the best apps for moms blog. If you are searching a message board for moms, visit this website.