When Should I Move My Child To a Bed?

Transitioning your child from a crib to a bed is a big deal! Not only is she now a “big girl,” but going from being inside the crib with the comfort of the railings to keep her safe and secure, to an open bed, is a BIG change. Most parents rush to do this a little too quickly and then sleep starts falling apart.

A few things to know:

• First things first, do NOT move your child to a bed “to fix her sleep problems.” If your little one is having sleep issues, you will continue seeing them when she is in a bed and maybe even worse. It is suggested to address the sleep issues first, then transition her to a bed.

• Wait until she is at least 3 years old or older. Under the age of 3, it is very hard cognitively for your little one to understand that she has the freedom of getting in and out, but must respect the correct sleep habits of staying in her bed.

• The age that you transition your child to a bed does not determine how smart she is. Don’t rush in transitioning your little one to a bed, if she’s happily sleeping in her crib. If she moves to a bed at 3 or at 4 years old, it will NOT determine what college she’ll get into.

Need help in transitioning your little one to a bed? Call me and we can talk it over.