When to Transition Your Child From a Crib to a Bed

Transitions are difficult when you’re a parent. They represent the closing of a chapter that you may not be ready to say “goodbye” to. The silver lining is that you have a lifetime of firsts ahead of you as you watch your child grow. And one of the most exciting “firsts” is watching your child transition to big kid beds.

Going from sleeping in a crib to toddler beds is a big deal, but you have to make this move at the right time. You want to make sure that your little one is developmentally ready for this adjustment and prepare for the change with the right bed to make the process as smooth as possible.

Keep reading to learn when to move your toddler to a toddler bed and how to make the transition with ease.

When to Change to a Toddler Bed

While a definitive answer would make this change much easier, unfortunately, there isn’t a set timeline for knowing when to move a baby out of the crib. The recommended age range can fall anywhere between 18 months and three years old. This decision comes down to where your child is in their own development, which can be determined in a few ways.

Here are telltale signs your child is ready for a toddler bed:

• They are climbing out of their crib: If your child can successfully climb out of their current crib, they may be ready to size up and sleep without a full enclosure. A big kid bed will ensure that your child is safer than they currently are climbing in and out of a tall crib.
• Their chest is higher than the railing when they stand: If your child isn’t a climber yet, they might become one when they grow tall enough. If your child is about 3 feet tall, they may be getting too big to sleep in a crib.
• They talk about sleeping in a big kid bed: Your child knows that at some point, they will have to sleep like an adult or big kid. They may love sharing a bed with you or their friends may have already made the transition. If they are talking about this change and are excited for it, it’s a sign they are emotionally ready for the move.
• They are finishing their potty training: While it’s not recommended to go through two major changes at once, if your child is at the end of their potty training, it’s safe to begin the process of transitioning them out of the crib.

If you still have unanswered questions, you’re not alone. Making a major change in your child’s life should be taken with as much consideration as possible so you both can move forward with confidence. Here are the most common questions that first-time parents ask when faced with this new phase.

How Long Are Babies in Cribs For?

As a general rule of thumb, babies are recommended to sleep in a crib until they are at least 18 months old. Cribs ensure your child’s safety, encourage independent sleep and help your baby stay in one place throughout the night.

How Long Does It Take to Transition to a Toddler Bed?

Deciding when to change to a toddler bed is just as significant for you as it is for your little one. This kind of transition doesn’t happen overnight. While a strong nighttime routine, reward system, and encouragement from their support system will help the process, it will take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to make the transition.

Solid Wood Bed Options for Kids

The toddler bed age range is from 18 months to five years old, so you’ll want the bed you choose to last at least four years. These solid wood beds will keep your precious ones safe as they continue to grow. They’re built to last and will hold up for use by future children while also making a great heirloom to share with future generations.

Storage Bed With Drawers

Moving up to a bigger bed is a sign that your child is also capable of other big kid challenges, like picking up their toys and learning how to maintain their own room. Beds that feature drawers and shelves will provide much-needed storage space to help you keep a tidy house and encourage your child to work on cleaning their space.

This twin storage bed with drawers comes in various finishes and features two bottom drawers. If you are looking for additional storage, this captain’s bed has six drawers and several headboard shelves. It’s taller than other available options, so make sure your child isn’t too small to climb out of it by themselves.

Child’s Panel Bed With Trundle

If you’re expecting another baby or have relatives close to your child’s age who love to have sleepovers at your home, a trundle bed may be perfect for your child. This child’s bed with a trundle is less than a foot high, so your toddler can climb in and out of bed without assistance.

A trundle bed will also come in handy if your child is having a particularly difficult time making the transition from their crib to a real bed. You may end up staying a night or two in your child’s bedroom at some point during this phase, and an extra bed that also fits a grown adult will help you get a good night’s sleep while comforting your child through rough nights.

Bunk Beds

While bunk beds may not have been your first thought when this transitional phase came about, you may want to consider investing in one. Bunk beds come in several sizes and varieties, with options for a second bed, play space underneath, storage shelves, and other customizable features.

In fact, you can look into ways to personalize your child’s bedroom furniture to meet your specific needs and design preferences. From complete matching, furniture sets to seamlessly smooth stains that will complement your child’s room, no matter the theme or color scheme.

Never Settle When It Comes to Your Child’s Bed

Your child’s bed is their comfort zone. It sees them through the night when they’re alone and out of sight and gives them space during the day when they need a break from a busy world.

Your growing toddler’s new bed needs to see them through countless nights for the foreseeable future. You and your child need dependable and functional furniture that meets the highest standard. That means the best solid wood, free from feeble veneers and harmful chemical finishes.

Amish Outlet Store has built its legacy on the standard of durable construction and beautiful designs by skilled crafters. As a family-owned and operated business, your family’s comfort is our priority. Shop our exclusive kid’s collection designs today!