Updated at: 19-10-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

It’s natural to wonder, as your child grows older, “when is it time for a toddler bed?”

Transitioning from a crib to an actual toddler bed requires patience and maturity on the part of the child.

During this article, we will discuss the appropriate age for a toddler’s bed.

What to expect when moving your child from a crib to a toddler bed is also covered here.

Let’s take a deep dive into the joys of parenthood and get ready for your toddler’s growth!

Why Should I Use A Toddler Bed?

There are a variety of options available to you when your child outgrows his cot.

Despite the fact that a conventional bed may be enticing.

Inexperienced toddlers may have a difficult time using it.

As an alternative, a toddler bed can be used.

Smaller beds like this one can be beneficial when your child is moving from a crib to a full-sized bed.

What Is The Minimum Age For A Toddler Bed?

When deciding if a toddler bed is appropriate for your child.

To answer the question, “what age is a toddler bed appropriate?” there are numerous factors to consider.

In accordance with the requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

At least 15 months of age is required for the proper use of a toddler bed.

Despite this, the matter remains open to interpretation.

Even though 18 months is the minimum age at which a child can transition to a bed.

Until the age of two and a half to three and a half, some toddlers may have trouble making the shift from one environment to another.

If this is the case with your child, don’t be alarmed; children between the ages of 4 and 8 are still considered typical.

As a result, any age between these two points is considered normal.

To put it another way, delaying the transition to a big bed like a toddler bed may be beneficial.

It does not imply that you or your child are in any way ill or defective.

If other parents in your support group are starting to wean their children sooner, don’t feel obligated to follow suit.

You are not lagging just because they are.

When To Transition To A Toddler Bed - An Ultimate Guide °°º º°° | Wriggly Toes

How To Tell If A Toddler Is Prepared To Transition To A Toddler Bed?

In the early years of a child’s life, the transition from crib to toddler bed is significant.

Both you and your child will benefit tremendously from this change.

Not all toddlers are ready to make the shift, even though there is a minimum age requirement.

As a result, it is advisable to wait until the child is ready.

When a child is ready to go from a crib to a toddler bed.

They’ll probably send out signals to let you know when it’s time.

If your child exhibits any of the following behaviors, you should take immediate action.

A toddler bed may be a good idea at this point.

Sign #1. When your toddler learns how to climb out of their crib

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to quit using the crib for your child.

When your child is able to get out of the crib on his or her own.

Toddlers should begin the move to a full-size bed when they are about 35 inches tall (89 cm).

Even if they’re in the lowest position in the crib with the mattress, they’re big enough to get out.

When your child is able to get out of their crib on their own.

As they try to flee, they could fall and hurt themselves in your crib.

Sign #2. When your toddler is learning how to potty train

Potty training and cribs don’t normally work well together.

You should be prepared in case your child wakes up in the middle of the night to use the restroom.

They must be able to get there quickly and easily.

Toddler beds that allow your youngster to quickly rise from the bed are ideal.

Going when it’s time to use the restroom will have a big impact on your toddler’s ability to learn to use the potty.

Sign #3. When your toddler is too big to fit in the crib

Your child is ready for a toddler bed when both their feet and their head touch both ends of the crib.

However, if your crib is smaller than the conventional size, this may not be an option for you.

Sign #4. When you are expecting another baby

If you know you’ll soon be welcoming a second child, you may not want to purchase a second crib.

When there’s a new bundle of joy on the way, however.

The fact that your child is ready to transition to a toddler bed is generally a sign that they’re ready.

When your child is at least 18 months old, you can use this as an indicator.

You shouldn’t use a toddler bed yet if your child is younger than two years old.

Not to mention, putting your child to rest in a toddler bed is a big step.

The presence of a new baby could make the toddler feel like they are being replaced.

In other words, make the change a month or two before the kid is born to ensure a smooth transition.

To make it look like they’ll be the big sister or big brother with the large bed, sensationalize it.

How old is old enough for a toddler bed?

The age at which a baby or toddler is ready to transfer from a crib to a toddler bed varies, just like other significant baby or toddler milestones.

There is a wide range in the time it takes for toddlers to transition from a crib to a full-sized bed. The normal age range is between the ages of 12 and 18.

In the long run, it won’t hurt either your child or yourself to wait until your kid is ready to move up to a big children’s bed. Playgroup members who are transferring their children early than you shouldn’t feel bad about it.

Having said that, most parents start thinking about getting their child a toddler bed around the time of his or her second birthday.

What exactly is a toddler bed?

The mattress in a toddler bed is typically the same size as that in a crib, and it is also lower to the ground. If your child is going to have a younger sister, you may want to consider buying a new bed instead of reusing the crib mattress.

To avoid any accidents, it is best if your child has access to side rails on a twin-sized bed instead of a full-sized one.

Signs your little one is ready to transition from crib to bed

When it comes to transitioning your child to a bed, there may not be a defined age at which it is appropriate. Certain indicators point to the need for an upgrade.

Even though your child is still on the younger end of the toddler bed age range, if you notice any of the following behaviors, it could be time to introduce a bed.

They can climb out of the crib

As a parent, you know when it’s time to go out of the crib. Even with the mattress in the lowest position, a 35-inch-tall youngster is big enough to attempt an escape from the crib, according to recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. So, your crib becomes a potential safety issue should your child fall while trying to escape.

You’re in the process of potty training

Potty training with a crib don’t mix at all. If your child wakes up in the middle of the night needing to use the restroom, you want them to be able to get there quickly. Choose a toddler bed to keep toilet training on track, so your child can promptly go when nature calls.

Related: Essentials for potty training

They no longer fit the crib

Your child should be out of their crib by the time they are able to reach both ends of the crib with their head and feet.

If you have a tiny crib instead of a convertible one, which is longer to meet typical toddler bed proportions, this is definitely going to be an issue.

There’s another baby on the way

Unless your child is at least 18 months old, it’s generally not a good idea to switch to a toddler bed at this time.

You may not be able to afford a second crib if you already have a baby on the way. There is no better reason to shift your youngster into a toddler bed than this.

Watch out for giving your child the notion that he or she is being replaced by someone else! At least a month or two before the arrival of the new baby, begin the process of transitioning. Make it fun for them to have a big kid bed as a big sister or brother.

Tips and tricks for making the switch

There are a number of ways that you may help your child transition from their crib to their first full-sized bed. It’s great that you inquired:

Consider the bed

If you have an active sleeper, you’ll want a bed that’s lower to the ground. To ease the transition, some parents simply place the crib mattress on the floor.

Switching From Crib to Toddler Bed

Many parents prefer convertible cribs for a variety of reasons, while others opt for a toddler bed. As a bonus, these crib-to-bed choices keep your toddler’s familiarity in mind because all that’s required is to remove the panel on the front of the crib.

Encourage toddler bed nap times

You can help smooth the transition to a new bed by having your toddler take naps there. This will make it easier to get them back into their old bed at bedtime because they will know that this is where they sleep.

Keep routines consistent

As long as your toddler has always gone to sleep at 9pm, you should keep the same time. For children, any departure from the “ordinary” can be a source of anxiety and fear.

As a result, try to maintain as much consistency as possible in the rest of their lives. Include your typical night rituals such as bathing and drinking milk or reading stories to your child before they go to sleep.

Make the transition exciting

Instead of foisting a new bed on your child, use animation to get them interested.

Tell them how much pleasure it will be to sleep in a “grown-up bed” like their parents. If you’re going to buy a toddler bed, get them involved in the process and let them choose their bedding. Your child will be more accepting of the change if they feel like they have a voice in the process.

Let your toddler pick their lovies

Their beloved stuffed animals that give them comfort are an important part of making their bed a comfortable place. It’s up to them to chose which of their favorite stuffed animals gets to join them in bed.

Be patient

For a short time, nighttime may be a challenge. Even though their new bed doesn’t have a panel, you’ll still need to reinforce bedtime routines and establish that they must remain in their new bed. There will be a two- to three-week adjustment period.

What if you realize after trying to switch that it’s too soon?

It’s acceptable if you pushed your child into a toddler bed before they were ready. So, do you want to bring the crib back, or do you want to continue? Is it possible for your child to actually go backwards or is it just a case of resistance?

It’s normal for your baby to be apprehensive or to wake up in the middle of the night. Constantly returning to check on parents or asking for water throughout the night are examples of this behavior.

If this happens to you, gently nudge them back to bed and carry on with the transition.

In the event that bedtime escalates into a full-blown tantrum or your child has trouble falling asleep, you may have gone too far too soon.

Bring back the cradle. Just because your child isn’t sleeping in a bed meant for a “big kid” doesn’t mean they’ve failed or disappointed you.

The “terrible twos” and what to expect from them are related.

If you’re moving your child out of his or her baby crib and onto a toddler bed, the timing of the transition is critical. A child’s capacity to learn and concentrate, as well as their emotional and social well-being, all depend on how well they sleep1. Changes to the bedtime routine of an infant, especially one who is used to sleeping in a crib, can be stressful for parents. Too early of a transition might cause sleep issues and bedtime reluctance in children2.

However, the transition from crib to bed is a typical part of childhood. As they get older, most toddlers are able to adapt to the new environment and often look forward to it. Some children are ready to begin school as early as 18 months, while others need to wait until they are 2 or 3 years old before they feel ready to begin. Your family’s best timing to start a new life together depends on several things.

When Is the Right Time to Switch to a Toddler Bed?

Approximately one-third of toddlers go from a crib to a bed between 18 months and 2 years of age, and a second third move from 2 to 2.5 years. The transition from a crib to a bed typically occurs between the ages of 18 months and 3 years old for most kids. Because of the broad age span, there are several things to think about before making the switch.

Does Your Child Seem Ready?

Climbing out of their crib and onto a toddler bed is a sure indicator that your youngster is ready. If your child routinely climbs out of the crib, the crib may represent a danger of injury.

Even if your child hasn’t managed to climb out of their crib yet, there are other signals that they’re ready to move to a bigger bed. In the case when you can see their chest above the crib rail while they are standing up, they may have outgrown their crib. When a youngster reaches the height of three feet, he or she is ready to begin sleeping in a bed. Also, kids may start telling you that they want a huge bed just like you or your older brother.

Your child may not be ready to transition to a full-fledged bed just yet if they’re having difficulty mastering the art of self-discipline. Learned self-control can be a challenge for those who prefer to sleep on their backs. According to some research, you should wait until your child is at least 3 years old before making the shift so that your toddler doesn’t frequently get out of bed and come to your room at night, which could disrupt your sleep.

Are You Expecting Another Baby?

To make room for a new baby in the crib, you may have to shift your toddler from his or her current bed. At least a few months before the baby arrives, begin moving your child to the new bed. This offers your toddler time to get used to their new bed without feeling displaced or jealous by their younger sibling. ”

Is Your Child Experiencing Any Other Big Changes?

Toddlers often have a hard time adapting to new situations, and a transition from a cot to a bed is no exception. Consider delaying the transfer to a bed for a little longer if your child is in the middle of toilet training or another large transition like entering daycare or moving with the family. Your toddler may be overwhelmed by too many changes at once, making the transition even more difficult for you and your child.

How to Pick a Toddler Bed

Toddler beds and twin beds with safety rails are two options for your child’s first bed.

Choosing your Child's First Bed | Cuckooland

Because toddler beds are smaller versions of twin beds, your child will soon outgrow them. However, they are designed with the safety of children in mind and frequently feature built-in side bars. As a bonus, toddler beds are more likely than twin beds to feature eye-catching patterns and colors that your youngster will enjoy. Even if twin beds aren’t as creatively designed, they can last your youngster for the duration of his or her youth. You can also add safety rails to twin beds in order to prevent them from falling over.

To make sure your mattress and frame are a perfect fit, buy them together when making your final decision on a bed. For small children, a bed that is lower to the ground is preferable. This makes it easier for your toddler to get in and out of bed on their own, and there is less of a drop in case they fall. Check the bed’s design to make sure it’s sturdy enough to handle typical toddler activity, with rounded edges to limit the risk of damage.

Convertible cribs are also available, which can be used as both a crib and a toddler bed. Using them, one side of the crib may be removed, allowing your child the freedom to get in and out of bed on their own, without sacrificing the comfort and familiarity of the crib itself.

Safety tips

Childproofing is going to have to go through an entirely new set of challenges when you bring in a toddler bed. Your youngster can now roam the house at any time, including at night, when you might not be aware of their presence. As a result, you should think about the following:

Guard rails

Guard rails might be included with some toddler beds, but they can also be purchased separately. It’s especially important if you have an active sleeper.

A soft landing

Make sure your child’s bedside area has a soft landing area, even if you have protection rails in place. This is the perfect time to use plush rugs and pillows.

Sweep for hazards

Things like sharp corners, stairwells, and windows can be dangerous if they aren’t properly inspected. If your child climbs up to a bookcase or bookcase while you are sleeping, make sure it is securely fastened so it doesn’t fall over.

Wrapping Up!

As a parent, seeing your child go from a crib to a toddler bed is a big deal.

By figuring out when a toddler bed is appropriate and what the indicators are.

To help your child transition from a crib to a toddler bed, you’ll be able to provide guidance.