Take the Leap! Transitioning to a Big Kid Bed
If you’re a parent of a toddler, you may be wondering when is the right time to transition your little one from a crib to a big kid bed. Transitioning your child from a crib to a big kid bed can be a big milestone – and a big adjustment! This can be an exciting but stressful time for both you and your child. But with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here are a few tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Pick the right time
Of course, it can feel overwhelming to choose the perfect time. No time is perfect, but there are a few telltale signs that your little one may be ready for their big kid bed. First, consider your child’s age and development. Generally, most kids are ready to make the switch between 18 months and 3 years old. If your child is climbing out of their crib, this could be a sign that they’re ready to move up to a bed. However, if your child is still content in their crib and showing no signs of wanting to get out, then you may want to wait until they’re a bit older.
Communicate clearly
Once you’ve determined that your child is ready for the transition, you’ll want to start preparing them. Talk to your child about the move and explain why it’s happening. If possible, take them shopping for their new bed to make the transition more exciting. If you’re concerned about your child getting out of bed in the middle of the night, you may want to consider investing in a bed rail to ensure their safety.
Pick the right bed
First, it’s important to pick the right-sized bed. Depending on your child’s age and size, you may want to select a single bed, a double bed, or perhaps a bunk bed. Make sure the bed is low enough for your child to easily get in and out of, and also make sure it’s sturdy and safe. You may also want to consider using a guardrail to prevent your child from rolling out of bed.
Pick the right mattress
You know that ‘new’ smell that sometimes lingers (sometimes for weeks and months) after you buy a new product? That’s in most cases chemical off-gassing. Off-gassing is the release of gases into the air from the materials that make up a product and often occurs with memory foams and other synthetic mattresses. These gasses can have a variety of effects on the air quality in a space, and in some cases, they can be harmful to human health. Some people (especially children) may be more sensitive to these gases than others, and the gases can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and eye irritation. Off-gassing also increases when the product is exposed to heat, which occurs for substantial periods when someone sleeps on a mattress. We may be biased, but when it comes to choosing the mattress for our little ones to sleep on, we know we’ll opt for a safe, natural mattress free from harmful off-gassing every time.
If you also prefer to stick to natural sleep solutions for your child, you can feel confident that the Peace Lily range is plant-based, all-natural, safe, and toxin-free.
Make their room exciting and inviting
Next, you’ll want to make their room comfortable and inviting for your child. The more they want to spend time in their own room, the more likely they are to sleep through the night in it. Consider adding special touches like a night light, a unique pillow, painting the walls in their favourite colour, or getting them a new stuffed animal.
Make it gradual
Finally, help your child adjust to the new bed by making the transition gradual. Start by allowing your child to nap or simply relax in the bed, and then move on to overnight sleeping. You can also help make the transition easier by reading books about the topic and talking to your child about the change.
The transition from a crib to a big kid bed can be a big step for your child. But with a little bit of preparation and understanding, it can be a wonderful, exciting experience for both of you.
Patience is a virtue
Finally, be patient and understanding as your child adjusts to the new bed. It’s normal for them to feel a bit apprehensive at first, so provide reassurance and comfort. You may also want to set up a bedtime routine to help them feel secure and settled down for the night.
Transitioning your child from a crib to a big kid bed doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right preparation and patience, you can make the transition a positive and exciting experience for both you and your child. When it’s time, browse through the perfect big kid bed solutions available at Peace Lily.
