Your baby is growing up. She really isn’t a baby at all anymore and is turning into more of a little girl every day. Still, she seems so comfortable, so peaceful sleeping in her crib. So how do you know when it’s time for her to graduate to a big bed?
Every child is different — some are ready by age 2 and others not until 3 or beyond. But here are a few signs it might be time to ditch the crib and move your toddler to a bed.
1. She’s climbing out of her crib
If your child has started climbing out of her crib, it’s time to seriously consider swapping it for a toddler bed. Not only is he showing you he wants out, but he can get hurt, so it’s best to be proactive and prevent an accident from happening.
2. He’s too big for the crib
Some children physically outgrow their cribs. They’re just too tall to sleep in them comfortably anymore. That’s a sure sign that it’s time to move them into a bigger bed they can stretch out in.
3. She’s potty trained, even overnight
If your little one is potty trained not only in the daytime but also overnight, there’s no way she’ll be able to make it to the bathroom if she still sleeps in a crib. Help her by putting her in a big bed that she can get in and out of by herself for those middle-of-the-night trips to the potty.
4. He puts up a fight about going to bed in the crib and seems to hate being in it
If your child suddenly puts up a big fuss about going to sleep in the crib and clearly doesn’t want to be in it anymore, follow his lead and retire it. He’ll be much happier and less resistant at bedtime.
5. She starts asking about when she’ll get to sleep in a big bed
Once your toddler expresses interest in sleeping in a big bed and asks you when she’ll get her own, it’s time to trade in her crib.
6. He’s okay being by himself, without parental supervision
Remember than moving your child into a toddler or other type of big bed means that he can get in and out of it at any time, including when you’re not around. If he can’t be trusted to be alone even for a minute, you should keep him in a crib until he can. On the other hand, if he’s okay without constant supervision, he’s probably ready for the transition.
