The last time you went shopping, you saw amazing kid beds at Benmores Beds and was tempted to buy one for your little boy. But is your child ready to say goodbye to his crib and spend the nights in a new sleeping space?
Most children become physically and mentally ready for a big-kid bed at the age of 2-3 years old. However, there is no definite time for every child’s readiness. Some toddlers make the transition earlier, while others need a longer time to achieve this milestone. Look for these signs to know if your child is ready for the crib-to-bed transition.
1. Your baby is a consistent jailbreaker
If your toddler manages to climb out the crib every time, this can mean two things. It might be a sign that your child is not happy with his limited space. Or he discovered a new motor skill. It can be a red flag that his crib needs a workaround to counteract his newfound skill: climbing.
So before making the transition, troubleshoot some issues in the crib to make it safe for your baby. Some solutions to ensure safety are lowering the mattress, removing crib bumpers, and putting your child in a sleep sack when sleeping. Whenever you notice him climbing out the crib, say a soft “no” or quietly lead him back to the crib. If these steps stop him from his repeated attempts to break free, your child is not ready for the switch.
2. Your child expressed his desire to have a big bed
Your toddler might have seen someone-a cousin or a friend who sleeps in his bed, and your child has developed a desire to do the same. When he tells you he wants his big-kid bed just like his playmate, it’s a sign that he is ready to ditch his crib.
3. Your child is physically big for his crib
Outgrowing his crib is a potential safety risk for your little one. If your child’s weight is beyond the limit of his crib’s capacity, he might dislodge the mattress and hurt himself. This is a sign that your little one needs a bigger and sturdier sleeping space.
4. He is going to be a big brother soon
If you are expecting another baby, you’ll feel that it’s time to help the future big bro get excited about transferring to his first bed. Take your child with you when you go shopping and involve him in choosing the right bed. Ask him to pick the mattress that he likes.
You need to prepare your child to give up his crib, weeks before your delivery. You don’t want him to feel that he is unwanted and being displaced just because his little sibling has arrived. Gradually make your child more comfortable in his new sleeping space by practicing nap sessions in the bed.
If you notice that your child suffers from the transition (disrupted sleep, waking up too early, not being able to sleep), you can consider buying another crib for your new baby. Let your toddler enjoy his crib a little longer until he’s ready.
5. He is potty trained
If your child has mastered his potty training, the crib will be a hindrance whenever he wants to use the toilet. Climbing out and inside the crib will cause discomfort to your little one. A bed will give him more freedom and convenience.
Don’t force your child to switch from crib to bed until he shows signs that he’s ready. And when he does, remember to celebrate this important milestone by throwing a bed party for your big kid!