When to Transition to a Toddler Bed

Transitioning my kids from their crib to a toddler bed is always an emotional moment for me. Once they’re in a bed, they suddenly just seem so big. The decision of when to make that change can vary widely from one family to the next, and there are a few factors to consider. 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids should move to a toddler bed (or other safe option like a floor bed) when the crib becomes a safety concern. If your child is trying to climb out of their crib, now is the time to make the switch. Cribs are typically considered unsafe once your child is 35 inches tall or once the top rail of their crib is below their nipple line. Once kids get too tall or when they’re trying to climb out, there’s a safety risk that they could fall out of their crib. The age that a child needs to transition for safety can vary, but many kids are 35 inches tall around 2 years old. 

Sometimes, people receive advice to place the crib mattress on the floor to make it lower. However, this is not a safe practice, and you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Instead of placing the mattress on the ground, make sure it is on the lowest possible setting. 

Even if your child hasn’t reached 35 inches tall yet, attempting to climb out of their crib is another reason to make the switch. When toddlers are climbing out of their crib, they can fall and get hurt. 

If your child has just started trying to climb out or if you think they will soon, a sleep sack can make it harder for them to get their leg up to try to climb out. Note that a crib tent is not a safe option to keep a child from climbing out of their crib. 

If your child starts asking to sleep in a big kid bed, it might be a sign that they’re ready to make the transition. Many toddlers are desperately seeking independence, and letting them sleep in a toddler bed might be a great opportunity to say “yes” and give your child the independence they crave. 

Many sleep consultants and professionals recommend delaying moving out of the crib as long as possible, ideally until age 3. Studies have even shown that toddlers tend to sleep better in cribs. 

Sometimes when kids are very young, they simply aren’t able to control their urge to get up out of bed when they’re supposed to be sleeping. Many kids reach 35 inches before they’re 3, so you’ll need to evaluate your child’s safety and determine if you think it’s safe for them to remain in their crib. 

Change can be hard on young kids, so it’s best if you can avoid too many changes at one time. For example, if you’re moving or if they’re just starting a new school, now might not be the best time to change up their sleeping situation as well. 

It’s also best to avoid transitioning simply because a new sibling is on the way — especially if your child isn’t ready to be out of the crib yet. Transitioning too early can make the switch more difficult, and it’s best to avoid making your child feel like they’re being pushed aside for the new baby. Many babies sleep in a bassinet for a few months, so if you’re trying to avoid buying a new crib, this buys you some time. 

Avoid transitioning because you feel pressure from others to do so. You know your child best, and if they are doing well in their crib with no safety concerns, then there is no reason for you to switch to a toddler bed if you and your child are not ready. 

When you and your child are ready to make the switch, a few simple tips can help everything go more smoothly. 

This can be a really big change for your child, and they might need some time to process it. Whenever possible, avoid making the transition suddenly. In the days and even weeks leading up to the switch, talk to your child about sleeping in their new big bed. Books and TV shows about transitioning to a toddler bed can help them process the change, too, like this Sesame Street book. 

Your child might have some fears about switching to a big bed, too. They might worry about falling out of bed or being alone in a space that feels bigger than their crib felt. Try to give them support and work through their fears. 

Make this an exciting time! Let your child pick out new sheets and maybe a new comfort object or two. Keep in mind that if you’re making the switch prior to age 2, the AAP does not recommend using a pillow prior to age 2. 

When you make this big switch, it can be helpful to make things as familiar as possible. Try to keep their bedtime and bedtime routine the same. It’s also helpful to let them know what your expectations are when it comes to staying in bed and when they can get out of bed in the morning. 

Now that your child will be able to get out of bed and have access to their entire room, make sure it is childproofed. Get rid of any dangerous cords, lock windows, cover outlets, and anchor furniture. If they’re able to leave their room, you’ll also need to make sure every part of the house they have access to is childproofed.

For a list of some of the best toddler beds currently on the market, check out this Cubby article: The 10 Best Toddler Beds for Little Kids Who Think They’re Big Now. Here are our three favorites.