Transitioning your little one from a crib to a toddler bed can be challenging. If you're reading this you're probably on the verge of making this transition because of one of the following reasons...
-Parents have decided to do it because they no longer want to lift their little one into the crib. -A new sibling is about to arrive and parents don't want to buy another crib. -Your toddler has started climbing out of the crib.
-You are eager to make the transition because you want to see your little one in a big bed -You feel your little one is outgrowing the crib -Your little one isn't sleeping well Or it's possible you're reading this because you've already made the transition and now you're running into some challenges.
So here's what I really encourage you to think about before you make the transition (or if you already have & are facing challenges): 1. Is your toddler over the age of 2.5? 2. Does you toddler understand sleep rules (usually this happens around 2.5-3 years)? 3. Is your toddler climbing out of the crib and you've tried everything you can to prevent the climbing? (Yes, there are multiple tricks you can try to prevent little climbers - and majority of them will work) That's it...that's all you need to consider before making the transition. The above points of why you may be considering, set those aside and focus on when your toddler is developmentally ready for this transition (around 2.5-3 years) and your transition will be much easier.
Once your toddler has reached this age, here's some things to help the transition go as smooth as possible.
1. Don't do the transition right before a big change. For example: moving, a new sibling arriving, or potty training.
2. Make sure your toddler is sleeping well in their crib prior to moving to a toddler bed.
3. Get your toddler prepared for the transition. Allow them to pick out new bedding and set up the bedroom. Tell them what to expect.
4. Set up a toddler clock, such as the GroClock, so your toddler knows when it's time to get out of bed and when they should still be sleeping.
5. Keep the bedtime routine the exact same during the transition.
6. Set boundaries the very first night. Don't give in to delays or reinforce bad behavior. Have a plan ready for what you will do when this happens.
If you have made the transition and you're stuck in the middle of a big challenge and your toddler's sleep has fallen apart, or you would like some more guidance in making the transition go as smooth as possible, you can schedule a FREE 20 minute sleep consultation here.
