Adora Glow in the Dark Snuggle & Glow Pillow - Sloth

When to Switch to a Big Kid Bed 

Knowing the best time to introduce a new bed to your little one is the key to succeeding in this adventure. Most children approach this milestone between ages of 18 months to 3 1/2 years. And unlike some developmental milestones of early childhood, like potty training or starting solids, the move from crib to bed doesn't always come naturally. 

Parents may also consider moving the child into a bed when:
💗 They have outgrown the crib
💗 They are trying to climb out of the crib
💗 They are toilet training and need to get to the bathroom easily
💗 Another baby arrives (Make the switch at least 6 to 8 weeks before the new baby is born, or put the baby in a bassinet for a few months before you move your older child)

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1. Keep things familiar

Remember how much your child depends on routines and consistency. Start by leaving everything else the same when migrating from the crib. Place the bed in the same place as the crib, give the same blanket, and keep the rest of the room the same. Always make sure there is always a stuffed animal to help ease your little one during the transition. Plush toys like Snuggle & Glow Pillows and reversible Snuggle & Glow Pets are glow-in-the-dark stuffed animals that not only can sooth your child but also entertain!

Adora My 1st Baby Boy

Adora Glow in the Dark Snuggle & Glow Pillow - Dino

2. Let your child make the choice 

To make the switch to bed even more enjoyable, let your little one help you choose their bedding. Go on a special shopping trip together to select sheets and blankets for their new mattress. Making it theirs will encourage them to find the desire to sleep there, especially if you keep talking about it as something they have control over.

You can also encourage your toddler to choose which special stuffed animals will get to sleep with them in the new bed!

3. Practice at nap time

Moving to a big toddler bed can be pretty intimidating. An excellent way to set your child up for success is to let them practice sleeping in it during nap time. It takes practice to get used to it!

4. Create a bedtime chart

Another fun and creative way to prepare your kid for the transition is to create visuals for them to see the change as it will happen.  Put pictures of them doing each activity of their bedtime routine and put it together in a book or a wall chart. This will give them a sense of security, control, and ownership of the situation.

Bedtime reward chart from livingandlovingmag

Adora Be Bright Plush

6. Praise your kid for practicing  

Tell your child you are proud of them for moving into a bed. A creative way to help your kid succeed in this adventure is having a sticker reward chart. Give one sticker for each night they stay in bed. By the end of the week, reward your little one with a special treat, like an extra story at bedtime or a new soft plush toy from Adora.

Browse our soft toys & plush collection to find the best toy for your kid!