Transitioning your child from their crib to a toddler bed is something that doesn't happen on its own...
it takes a plan! So how can this childhood milestone be accomplished without trauma to the parents OR the toddler? Here are five tips to aid you in accomplishing this milestone.
Tips for the Transition: o Make the room inviting and age-appropriate o Utilize the crib mattress for the toddler bed o Have a bedtime routine o Night-time accidents are part of the toddler experience o Insist the child sleep in their toddler bed.
Make their room inviting and age-appropriate: It is time to go shopping to find new toddler bedding that is NOT baby-stuff.
Look for something colorful and fun that could spark your child's interest.
There are places where you can purchase toddler bedding that fit the crib mattress.
Transitioning from baby crib into the big boy or big girl bed is a milestone; it IS a big deal! Transition means a slow gradual process of change.
Start with nap time.
Make a special toddler bed on the floor; include the new pillowcase and comforter from the new toddler bedding set.
Make a BIG deal over it.
Make it understood, that big kids stay on the blanket for their nap.
Let them have a toy or soft music so they can rest.
Have a bedtime routine: A pleasant and fun step by step routine is necessary to set the tone for bedtime; including washing up or a bath, bedtime clothing, tooth brushing, bathroom visit, and some sort of special time with the parent.
This may be reading a story or two, singing a soft soothing song to them, a bedtime prayer, a short back rub etc.
Enjoy this special time with your toddler! Insist your child sleep in their toddler bed.
IF you choose to lay down with them, make it brief, setting the expectation that your child is to stay in their toddler bed.
If you need to install a gate on the bedroom door to corral your child do so.
If they wander out of the room, gently, but firmly walk your child back into their room and into their toddler bed.
Each time you cave into their wanderings or crawling into your bed, the longer it will take to establish your new routine! Be strong, it makes it easier for you and your child to have a set bedtime routine.
Utilize the crib mattress for the toddler bed: Many parents make the mistake of literally getting a BIG bed for their toddler.
Now a spacious bed may be YOUR dream, but often makes the toddler feel intimidated.
They are used to a confined space in their crib; so why not use that crib mattress and transition into a twin or full-sized bed later.
The price is certainly right! The crib mattress can be placed on a frame, but there is nothing wrong with placing the crib mattress on the floor, at least there is no damage if the child falls out of bed! Special toddler bedding helps make the crib to bed transition more fun, and they'll love these versions of kids bedding.
Night-time accidents are part of the toddler experience: It is a process to train the bladder for the longer expanse of time during the night.
The child usually feels bad that they wet their bedding and don't do this on purpose.
To help reinforce their vulnerable self-esteem, quickly change the sheets and get your child back into their toddler bed.
We all have to make this crib to bed transition at some time.
Implement the plan: Provide an inviting, age-appropriate room using the crib mattress for the new toddler bed.
Establish a bedtime routine, setting the expectation the child will be sleeping in their bed, and embrace the inevitable night-time accident.
Get your ducks in a row and work your plan to conquer this childhood milestone.