Hi Moms..what is a good time to transition my son to a toddler bed? Are there any signs I should look for? As always, thank you!
I waited until my daughter was repeatedly climbing out of her crib, then we made a big deal out of turning her crib into a big girl bed and began the never ending struggle of keeping her in it at bed time. =) (It isn't that bad, but it is a little frustrating at first.)
R.- I have a 22 month old daughter, and have been thinking of moving her as well. In our case, comfort is the issue. She has gotten really tall, and doesn't seem to be comfortable in her crib. When looking at transitioning, I would consider his comfort in the crib. I would also consider if you think he's ready? Meaning, is he a climber? If so, I would move him before he climbs out & possibly gets hurt. I look at it like there will be a transition period, but it will have to happen sooner or later. Just make sure & "re-baby proof" his room, moving anything out that he could possibly get into. This, just like every other milestone, you need to take the cue from him. Good luck to you! :)
Think of it this way: If it ain't broke, don't fix it! If the baby is happy in the crib, not jumping out of the crib, and not actively asking for a big boy bed, then don't move him until one of those two things happen. Some kids move earlier and some kids move later, but if you follow his lead you'll likely have better results and it'll be less of a 'novelty' (where he won't stay in his new big boy bed, despite all your efforts, and it becomes a total headache/nightmare for you).
Our son was 30 months (old!!) before he started climbing out of the crib. The next day, we converted it to the toddler bed and followed Weissbluth's techniques for the 'jack-in-the-box' kid who won't stay in bed. The first two nights were a little frustrating until we learned that he stays in bed for daddy but not for mommy. Now, a mere two weeks later, he goes down perfectly for bedtime and doesn't get out until the morning.
Hi R.,
I read that it's good to move your toddler from the crib when he reaches 36 inches. You'll have to use your judgement on this one and do what's best for him. Can't follow everything by the book. My son is 25 months and I think he's ready because he's climbing out a lot and looks a little cramped. Good luck.
Bernie
