Are you about to take the next significant milestone in your little one's sleep journey by moving them from a crib to big bed?
Do you need some uncomplicated advice on where to get started? Welcome, you've found the right place.
Follow along as we guide you with some expert tricks, product information, safe sleeping tips and we’ll arm you with a crib to bed tool kit, plus so much more. You've got this; we've got you; let's transition to a big bed together.
With love,
eP X.
How do I know if my toddler is ready to move to a big bed?
Generally speaking, most toddlers move into a big bed between the ages of 2 and 3.5 years. But remember that every child is different; if yours is not ready, that's ok. The time will come when they're ready. You can always try introducing a pillow and a quilt into their crib once they're over 2. This will give them some time to practice before the big move.
How do I know if my toddler is ready to move to a big bed?
Is your toddler showing signs
that they're ready for the transition?
What do you do next? We're so glad you asked
The must-have bedding and sleepwear line up!
Start with the Organic Toddler Pillow
The Organic Toddler Pillow features a low profile (1.2 inches) designed to support the correct alignment of the neck during sleep from 2 years of age. Both the pillow and case are made from soft, breathable, 100% GOTS certified organic cotton to prevent those sweaty feels at night.
Our organic cotton fabric is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals and pesticides for a healthier and more sustainable sleep. With a quilted design to prevent clumping, the Organic Toddler Pillow can be machine washed. Handy, we know.
Start with the Organic Toddler Pillow
Introducing blankets
Blanket training can start in the crib from 2 years of age plus.
Once you've taken the sides off the crib, an appropriate sized quilt or blanket can be introduced to your child to begin 'blanket training'. We suggest using a light blanket that's easy to pull up, alongside their existing sleep sack.
Once your child is used to the change in their bedding, remove the sleep sack and opt for a temperature-appropriate quilt/duvet. As your mini moves to their big bed, the familiarity of a blanket, and getting used to pulling it up, will make the transition smoother.
Introducing blankets
Practice big bed routines through role play
Our little ones learn about real world behaviours and etiquette through role play. If your child is struggling with the concept of moving from crib to bed, try acting out the scenario with their doll or teddy. Dress doll/teddy in their Doll Sleep Sack, and put a blanket on top of them for bedtime.
Have your child 'transition' their doll or teddy to a bigger bed (you could make one out of a cardboard box), talking them through the excitement of growing up and using blankets.
Practice big bed routines through role play
Blanket Alternative - Meet the Sleep Onesie
If your child is not getting used to blankets or quilts, or is constantly kicking them off and wake up cold, consider a Sleep Onesie for sleep.
The Sleep Onesie is a TOG-rated sleep suit designed to be used for big bed transitions, to give kids freedom in a bed with the warmth of a blanket.
Going up to a size 4-5Y, they're the perfect way to help your kid get used to blankets, while staying warm.
Blanket Alternative - Meet the Sleep Onesie
Before the big move let’s check safety in the room!
Step One
Around 8 weeks before you plan to move them to a bed, introduce a crib-sized blanket and toddler pillow into their crib. Ensure one of the crib sides are removed before you do this. Get them familiar with using these items, and being comfortable with them. As they practice pulling up the blankets, keep them in their sleep onesies or sleep suit bag for warmth.
Step One
Step Two
As you're approaching D-Day, involve them in picking their new sheets, and quilt cover. Get them excited about it and talk to them about what will be happening. Let them role play and learn by putting their teddies and dolls to bed. Get a clock and explain when this hand reaches the 7, you can get out of bed. We know, easier said than done, but it may help have fewer 5am hall walks.
Step Two
Step Three
When the time comes, keep your nighttime routine consistent - don't make any changes now. If you're potty training, don't attempt overnight potty training at the same time as the bed move, so you don't introduce too many changes at once.
Step Three
Step Four
When they transition, bring all their comfort items and bedding from their crib, into the big bed. These familiar items will help them cope with the change. If they've gotten the hang of blankets, you can now put them in PJ's only for sleep under their blankets. Make the switch for all sleeps (day and night). If they stay in their bed all night, tell them how proud you are! Goodbye crib!
Step Four
Tips from Sleep Expert - Sleep by Steph.
Is it time or is it not time? That is the question so many parents are asking when it comes to transitioning their toddler from crib to bed.
It can be a nerve-wracking time knowing that your child is about to leave the safe confines of their crib to a big bed, where they have the freedom to get out, roam and explore their room and possibly the whole house.
Tips from Sleep Expert - Sleep by Steph.
