How to Get 16 Month Old to Sleep in Toddler Bed

I think the gate and childproof room is the right approach. It will take some time, and you need to be VERY consistent and firm about it, but he will learn. My son - if we're having a "battle" about it (like if he wakes up at 5:00 AM and doesn't believe me that it's still night time) will occasionally fall asleep on the floor by the gate. It's not the end of the world, and it only rarely happens. 16 months is on the early side but not too early, I think. Good luck!

I know that for some kids staying in a crib is huge comfort...and 16 months is about the earliest I've ever heard of moving into toddler bed...is there anyway to get an inexpensive crib for the baby (we got ours at Kmart for 89.00 and it converts to a toddler then a double and it's very cute-white with a solid back. My kids are 3 years apart and we got the baby his own crib as his sister wasn't ready to give up hers (and didn't until she was 3 1/2). Sorry I don't have much advice about getting him to stay in the bed.

B. - mom of 4 1/2 DD and almost 2 year old DS

It is a big job. I have three grown sons and have raised three grandchildren and still raising them and several other children. Use the gate approach. I kepted putting my son back to bed and after three nights he soon learned it was his special bed. Make him feel he is growing up and sometimes a special non sugar treat when he stays helps. They want to be where we are at and this new freedom gives them that choice. Keep re-enforcing this is his new bed.

Hi C.- My 1st two were 18 mo apart and I did move #1 out at about 18 mo. I put the mattress on the floor and permenant baby gate-not a pressure (she wasn't a climber and also got the plug protectors that were permanent switchplates (not the plastic pop in the socket kind. You have to be OK with your 16 mo old ending up sleeping on the floor etc. Also make sure you bolt the dresser to the wall. Gotta keep them safe!
Good Luck
Beth
PS I now have #4 who is 16 mo and I can't believe I did that to #1 but she handeled it beautifully!

I think at any age they will get out of bed and experience their new found freedom. We child proofed the room and put up a gate. Once in a while my son would be asleep on the floor, but at least he was in his room. Eventually he will stay in bed. Good luck.

I wonder if the 16 month old isn't old enough to be in a big kid's bed yet. I understand not wanting to buy a crib (I have 2 kids that are 16 months apart). Could you borrow a friend's crib in the interim while your oldest gets used to the idea of being in a bed? I think the idea of putting up a gate is a good one. Hopefully your 16 month old will get the idea that he's supposed to sleep in the bed.