When Should You Switch Your Child from a Crib to a Bed?

Baby Center- Although most children replace their crib with a bed between ages 1 ½ and 3 ½, there is no absolute set time to begin the switch. However, it is best to start the transition when the child is on the older side of the spectrum because many little ones simply aren’t ready to give up their crib.

Many parents make the switch because they’re worried that their active toddler might climb or jump out of their crib, producing a real safety concern. But it’s best not to react to climbing out of the crib or any other sudden sleep problem with a sense of alarm. Don’t rush right out and buy a new bed the day your toddler first climbs out of the crib. Some children adjust readily to this change, while others have a hard time with it.

If there is a new baby on the way, you’re probably going to try to free up the crib. During this time your child may feel possessive of their baby things, such as the bed they’ve slept in their whole life. Your child might also feel that the new baby is “taking over” their stuff. To make this transition easier, get your toddler excited about sleeping in a “big-kid bed.” Take your child to pick out blankets and sheets with their favorite colors and characters, make it special for them. You can even let your child sleep with their crib blanket as a sense of security during this new change.

If you find that you’ve made the switch too soon and your toddler is upset, don’t give up right away. Some toddlers just aren’t ready for a large bed. Introduce the crib back, wait a little while, then try again. It won’t take too long for them to adjust. And if you are having a difficult time finding or deciding on what type or style of bed, you can always take them with you. Mattress type, bedding style, and bedroom sets are available to you and your child at Ashley HomeStore in Lubbock or Ashley HomeStore in Hobbs, NM.