Crib to Bed Transition

A Moment on the Significance of the Crib

For many people starting their

journey into parenthood, the

crib is a symbol of those early

baby days. Setting it up in

preparation may be equal

parts exciting and terrifying.

This crib will hold your baby as

they sleep for many naps and

(hopefully) long bedtime rests.

For me it was an emotional

moment to take down the crib-a sign that babyhood was starting to fade and time was

racing on.

The crib is a safe space that gives security, warmth, and stability to our children-and it can also be a sentimental transition. If you are feeling that sentimentality, I am here with you and that is totally ok! If you are not, that is absolutely fine as well. I want to hold space for you to feel however you do in this moment-parenting is different for

everyone and that is how it is supposed to be.

The Big Question-When is the Right Time

There is no cut and dry answer to this, as with most things in parenting it really depends on a number of factors. As a general rule of thumb, I find it best to wait as long as possible. I'm a firm believer in the “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” principle. If your child is content in their crib, there is no need to move them until they are ready. Some children find a great sense of security within the stability of a crib and it is absolutely fine to have them in it until they are 4 or 5 years old! I highly recommend holding off the transition to a bed until a child is

closer to 3.5yrs or older if possible. It takes a lot of self-control and responsibility for a child to stay in their bed when they are given that freedom. The only reason that I recommend transitioning prior to that age would be if you are having safety concerns with your child climbing out or if you are raising an exceptionally responsible basketball player and you are ready to make the leap!

Top Tips to Make Transitioning a Breeze

There are a few different things that I greatly recommend during this big transition no matter your child’s age.

1. Talk to them about it- Children are incredibly smart and capable. Prior to the transition, I recommend talking to your child about what they can expect. You can tell them what an exciting next step this is and also ensure that they understand what you expect from them at bedtime now. There are many books you can read with them as well to help them better understand this transition!

2. Get your child involved-If at all possible, I recommend letting your child help you with the transition. Giving them small tasks (please hand me that screwdriver) can help them feel excited and involved! If your child is naturally anxious, it may be a good idea to get a small bed for their favorite doll or stuffed animal as well so that they can help them transition too!

3. Make it safe- Now that your child won't be in their crib anymore, their entire room needs to be safe. All furniture should be secured, outlets covered, blind cords put up, and toys should be safe for unsupervised play. It is hard to say what littles with newfound freedom will get up to, so it is very important that they are safe while

doing it.

4. Establish boundaries early- I recommend an okay-to-wake clock if at all possible. I love using the hatch clock as it can be controlled on your phone. For my kiddos, I taught them the little jingle “if the light is red, i stay in bed” from early on so that they knew when they were allowed out of bed. When it is an appropriate time for them to get out of bed, the clock will change to a new color (you can program it for a

time or switch it manually on your phone). It may take some getting used to, but with a little practice and a lot of praise when they get it right, they will catch on!

You’ve Got This

As the parent, you set the tone for how this transition will go. Be confident, set firm boundaries, and you’ve got this. This is such an exciting marker of responsibility and growth in your child-pat yourself on the back for all of the work you have done so far, you’re doing great!