Toddler Week 74

0

Hello Toddler Bed

When you are ready to set your toddler up into a “big kid bed” as we used to call it in our house, it will be helpful to make sure you and your partner are on the same page with regards toagree on the expectations associated with it.  Youd be surprised how many people dont realize what this transition can mean for parallel parenting! Is your “big kid” allowed to get out of bed in the middle of the night to sleep with you?  Will you shut the door or leave it open?  When she wakes up in the morning, what are the expectations for the routine?  This freedom your little one will have will change a few things around the house, so be prepared!

It will be helpful to prepare your child for this transition ahead of time.  Are you going out to buy a new bed?  If so, take her with you to let her help pick it out and have ownership over the decision.  It is an exciting milestone, so talk it upmake a big deal out of it!  If you are borrowing a bed, like we did when our daughter transitioned, we set it up in her room for a few days before we actually make the official move.  This way it wasnt a “foreign” item that she suddenly had to use and feel comfortable in.  If you are expecting a new baby, start this transition at least 6 to 8 weeks before the baby is due so you have time to work out any issues before you are managing a new baby at the same time!

You will want to talk to your child abouthave to discuss rules and routines associated with this new milestone.  You will want to discusstell her how it is important that she stay in her bed and that when it is “night night time” she needs to close her eyes and go to sleep.  It isnt a time for playing in the room even though toys and books are easily at reach!  Your toddler might not follow those rules well at first, but consistent, loving reminders each time it happens will be effective.

Be sure to take safety into consideration. Consider safety when choosing the right bed for your toddler.  Some parents decide to skip the “in between toddler bed” and go right for the larger bed your child will have throughout childhood.  If this is the case, you will want to invest in side rails because these bigger beds are higher off the floor and you dont want your little one rolling off!

When you do make the decision to transition to the “big kid bed” make it a celebration!  It may seem like the end of the “baby” stages, which can be hard for parents, but there are so many fantastic moments ahead of both of you!  Enjoy the moment and look forward to the exciting excitement ones associated with having a new “big kid!”

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here