Big Kid Bed

Time for a Big Kid Bed?
By, Michelle Harmon, as published in the LaPorte County Herald-Argus, 4/10/10
Now that your baby is a toddler, is it time for a big kid bed? A big kid bed can be a toddler bed, a twin mattress on the floor or even a twin/full size bed with a rail. But, how do you know when your toddler is ready to leave her crib? There are a few signs to look for that may indicate that your toddler is ready to ditch the crib.
First, the most obvious sign is climbing. If your toddler can or has tried to climb out of his crib, it is time to move him to a big kid bed. Climbing the rails or climbing out of the crib and falling can lead to serious injury. So, if your little one has turned monkey, get her out of the crib!
If your child is potty trained or potty training, it's time to leave the crib. Simply, for the reason that if she has to go potty during nap or bed time, she must be able to get out and get to the potty quickly!
Most parents transition their toddlers to big kid beds between the ages of 11/2 and 3 years old. It really depends on you and your child. Some toddlers are ready at 18 mos., and some kids are happy to stay in their cribs until their potty trained. If you think your child is ready for the transition, there are a few things to consider to help ease him into the big boy bed.
First, if you can take him with your to either pick out the bed or pick out the bedding to put on it. If you aren't buying anything new, let him be there when you put it up, and act super excited about it. Place the new bed, if you can, in the same spot that the crib previously occupied. These steps should help him feel safe and secure and happy about his new bed.
Secondly, be sure that you have a guard rail if you are using a bed that is off the ground. Toddlers can be very active in their sleep and you don't want them to fall out and get hurt! Also, in the vein of safety, install a baby gate at the door to your child's room. Since he can get in and out of bed on his own now, you don't want him to wander out of his room and possibly get hurt in the middle of the night. For the same reason, make sure his room is completely baby-proofed, so if he gets out and plays, he won't get hurt.
Last thought, moving to a big kid bed is a big deal for your toddler..and for you. Make sure you are both ready. Don't worry yourself sick over it or try to push your toddler into a big boy bed if he is not ready to go. Patience, Mom.