Moving from Crib to Big Kid Bed

Remember the incredible crib surfing baby? After that, did the parents think about moving that child to a big boy bed? We can't answer that, but we can give you some good general guidelines around when and how to move your child when they are ready.

Pictured here is Chester's new big boy bed (the Annapolis Blue Kids Bed) from customer Abbey Chambers. She writes "This weekend, my husband and I finally set up our son's new 'Big Boy Bed', which we ordered from you back in April. I've attached a picture here to show you how great it looks. (Feel free to share this with other customers, if you want.) We are so THRILLED with it! The color is beautiful and the quality is outstanding." Emails like this make our day and our team really enjoyed sharing it.

Deciding if a Child is Ready

Moving a child from a crib to a bed is an important transition. Many make the move between the ages of 2 and 3 and a half, but readiness will vary. Some signs that it might be time for your child:

1. Regular climbing out of the crib (not to be confused with crib surfing!) is a sign they are physically ready.

2. Showing interest in a "big kid" bed can show they are mentally moving that direction.

3. The child is simply too big for the crib. The  American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends transitioning once the crib railing is lower than their chest. Children are more easily able to climb out of the crib at that point, which can lead to injury.

You know your child best, so trust your instincts and look for the signs that they might be ready.

Choosing a Bed

We would love to help you pick a wonderful, quality bed and here are some general suggestions:

1. Select an appropriately sized bed for your child. Toddler beds are typically closer to the ground.  Twin and full beds are popular options as they provide space for growth over multiple years. If you are looking at loft beds, look for low designs, stairs, and loft beds made especially for kids.

2. Ensure the bed meets safety standards and is low to the ground to prevent long falls. Note that we only sell beds that meet or exceed  Federal and CSPC guidelines.

3. Guardrails can help for kids who move a lot while they sleep. You don't have to buy a bed with guardrails (unless it is a bunk off the floor) as there are many aftermarket attachments and bumpers available. 

4. Opt for a low bed to reduce the risk of injury in case your child rolls out of bed. A lower height also makes it easier for your child to climb in and out of bed independently. Consider  beds with stairs rather than a ladder for ease of movement as well as extra storage.

5. Solid wood or metal frames tend to be more durable through wear and tear than particleboard or plastic options.

6. Check to see that the weight limit or capacity of the bed appropriately supports your child. Kids like to jump on beds even if we tell them not to.

7.  Themed beds can be a fun way to involve your child in helping to choose or design their room. Being a part of the decision-making process can create a sense of ownership and excitement.

8. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's recommendations on mattress thickness. This is especially true with  kids bunk beds as it determines how much safety rail is available. We have a wide selection of mattresses that match beautifully with our beds.

Use our 40 years of experience!  Email, chat with, or call our expert team. Our goal is for you AND your child to be thrilled.

Making it a Smooth Transtion

Let's not kid ourselves. If the children are not sleeping, neither are the parents!

1. Keep a consistent bedtime routine and time. Continue reading stories or singing songs if that is what you normally do.

2. Celebrate! Add a new tradition around moving to the new bed and being a big kid. How about a new stuffed animal, night light, or special book?

3. Maintain a familiar sleep environment with their favorite bedding, blankets, and stuffed animals.

4. A gradual transition can help reluctant movers. Potentially start with naps in the new bed.

5. Secure any furniture or objects that could pose a risk of tipping over or causing injury. Install safety gates on stairways if necessary.

6. Be flexible and patient. Your child may get out of bed, wake up at a different time, have a hard time falling asleep, or be happy as a clam in the new bed. A plan for unwanted behaviors around the new sleeping arrangement can help alleviate stress. Don't worry about resistance and setbacks and be ready to celebrate this fun milestone.

Thank for reading and supporting  Totally Kids Totally Home. If you have any feedback, suggestions on this post, please email us at info@thebeanbagstore.com.