From Crib To Bed – Transition Tips

Shifting your child from the security of a crib to a big kid bed can be a stressful transition – both for child and parents. Bedtime delay tactics and early morning rising are just a couple of the challenges that many parents face with the transition.

But fear not says sleep doula, Tracy Ruiz, owner of Birth Solutions. There are simple strategies to help reduce the stress and ensure everyone gets a good night sleep. Here are her tried and true tips making the shift:

1.    Make it a big deal. We all get excited when moving one from one place to another – especially when making the move means independence. Talk with your toddler about how exciting it is that she’s ready to sleep in a “big kid’s bed.” It’s also fun to take a shopping trip and let her choose her own special bed linens.

2.    Safety is a must. Now that your toddler has his freedom, be prepared that he will be looking to explore. Ensure that the room is safe and limit the areas he can explore. Anchor dressers and large furniture, limit access to drawers and closets, and make sure he can’t get into any creams or lotions. I always sit in the middle of room before we start the first night and try to think of any troubles a toddler can get into. Believe me, Vaseline is terrible to clean off walls and out of toddler’s hair.

3.    Routine, Routine, Routine. Even though they are sleeping in a different place, try to keep a similar bedtime routine as they had in the crib. Just be prepared that they will probably try to modify the routine due to their independence!

4.    Be prepared for negotiations. It’s important to try and anticipate your toddler’s needs before she even asks. This way you can show her everything is there, for example a sippy cup of water, a pacifier, or a favorite teddy bear. You should also be prepared to cuddle for just a few more minutes. You can try using a timer to limit the negotiations.

5.    Stay firm and be strong. For the first few nights your child will try to test the limits of their new independence, and it’s important that you stick to your guns. Every time he gets up walk him back to his new bed. Be firm that it’s bedtime and time to sleep, but be patient – this is all new and exciting.

6.    Fill them with praise. We all love encouragement so make sure in the morning you praise them for sleeping in their bed like “big kids do”. For toddlers who like rewards, have a chart and give them a star for each night they sleep alone in their bed. Five stars equals a special day with mom and dad, or special gift.

7.    Some helpful tools. Having a special nightlight, white noise machine, or a bed friend like Dora can make this transition easier for your toddler. To help her understand when it’s time to come out of her bed or room, try using a digital clock with only the hour showing if she understands numbers. You could also check out this great behavior clock, which uses the sun and the moon as cues.

Remember that every child is different, and for some the transition will be easier than for others. However, with some preparation, determination and patience, it won’t be long before you and your toddler are slumbering happily and peacefully in your own beds.