TL;DR: Is your toddler showing signs that they are ready to upgrade out of their crib? Transitioning to a big kid bed is a big step for both toddlers and parents, but as long as you wait until you are both ready, involve your child, and lay some ground rules, it will be as smooth a transition as possible.

Transitioning to a Big Kid Bed: 3 Must-Have Tips

If your baby is at least 2 years old and starting to show signs that they are ready to ditch their crib, this blog is for you! Transitioning to a big kid bed can be intimidating for both kids and parents. Making the switch is a big milestone for you both, but as long as you follow some simple tips, it can go easily and smoothly. Keep reading to learn our three favorite must-have tips for transitioning to a big kid bed, including some products that will get them excited to go to (and stay in!) bed.

Tip 1: Wait Until They (And You) Are Ready

The most important tip for transitioning to a big kid bed is to wait until you are both ready to make the switch.

Here are some signs your little toddler may be showing:

• Frequently climbing out of their crib
• Getting too big for the crib
• Frequent wake-ups due to being too big for their crib
• Verbalizing that they want a big kid bed
• Refusing to sleep in their crib
• Sudden resistance to bedtime or naptime

Here are some signs that you are ready to make the switch with your toddler:

• Their room is completely baby-proofed
• They aren’t switching just because you need the crib for a new baby or you’re feeling pressure from fellow moms
• You are ready to possibly dedicate a few sleepless nights, skipped naps, or switch back if it doesn’t go well

Tip 2: Get Your Child Involved

Surprising your toddler with a brand new bed in their room might sound like fun, but it can be off-putting for many children. Instead, do the exact opposite and get them as involved as possible.

This can include:

• Give them several bed choices within your budget to choose from
• Allowing them to choose their bedding or wall decorations
• Helping to disassemble their crib and say goodbye

Cotton Embossed Minky Blanket

The marvelous minky side has the look and feel of a stuffed animal, with embossed plush dots! The reverse side is silky smooth and covered with a signature Dono & Dono pattern. The entire blanket is comprised of 100% premium cotton, known for its high absorbency, breathability, and gentleness on sensitive skin.

The Original Milo & Gabby Sleeping Bag

Made from 100% Cotton Sateen with a 320 thread count, our sleeping bags are lightweight and silky smooth to the touch. Perfectly sized just for toddlers, our napmat measures 31.5" W x 55" L and conveniently folds up and stores compactly in a zippered travel bag.

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Milo & Gabby Animal Shaped 3D Comforter

These super soft and snuggly toddler sized comforter is styled to look like a fun Milo & Gabby animal character friend. It’s brought to life with detailed 3D quilting. There’s a mini-stuffed friend attached, too!!

Tip 3: Lay The Ground Rules and Stay Consistent

It is important to lay some ground rules with your child’s new big kid bed and stay consistent with them.

Some common ground rules include:

• Staying in their room all night, which a light-up clock can help with when changing from red to green
• Start with nap time so they can get used to their rules first, before nighttime
• No playing with toys in the middle of the night; do your best to go back to sleep
• Maintain their regular bedtime routine—only the bed is different
• If they do get out of bed in the middle of the night, do not scold them. Just gently guide them back to bed and remind them that they need to stay there.

Written by Jaclyn Uloth, Marketing copywriter and Mom of 3 boys, 5 and under