Choosing the Right Transition Bed

Choosing the right bed to transition your toddler from a crib can be a difficult task.  There are many worries associated with the transition such as your child’s fear of change, falling out of bed at night,getting wedged between the wall and bed frame and the idea of your child roaming unsupervised in the middle of the night. The transition from crib to a toddler bed or twin bed can be made easier by choosing the right bed for your toddler.

Here are a few pointers:

1. Make sure the bed is sturdy and not in danger of collapsing. Periodically, check the joints, especially when your child jumps on his or her bed or if you're using a metal-framed bed, in which screws are more likely to jostle loose.
2. Choose a bed that is low to the ground. It's easier for your toddler to get into, and, should she fall out, the distance to thefloor is not great and chances of injury are slim. Place a rug or other padding along the side and open end of the bed for added protection in cushioning falls. Some parents choose to place a futon or mattress directly on the floor at this stage rather than using a bed.
3. Choose a bed which has bumpers or guardrails, which can be easily attached.  Make sure they sturdy, easily lock in place and don’t loosen causing your child to get wedged inside the gap.
4. Choose a simple design. The best bed frames are simple with head- and footboards that do not have cutouts or protrusions for you child to bump into. 
5. Place the bed safely in the room. Be sure to place your toddler's bed safely away from windows, heating units, wall lamps, and drapery and blind cords. To avoid the risk that your toddler could become trapped between the size of the bed and the wall, place the bed with the headboard, rather than the side, along the wall.
6. Before you make the transition you should prepare your child for the switch to a new kids bed.  Let them know they going to be moving to their big boy/girl bed soon. Making them a part of the decision process in choosing a new bed will get them excited about the move too.
7. To transition, remove the crib and position your new bed in the same place as the crib.  Falling asleep and waking to familiar sites in his room makes the move easier. Use the same blankets from the crib for a while, even if too small.This will bring them comfort and familiarity.

Make sure you enjoy the process with your child and remember patience and consistency is the key to success.