Toddler Bed Information
Moving your child out of a crib is a big life change. For many children, using a toddler bed as a transition between a crib and a full-sized bed can make the change easier. A toddler bed is easy for a toddler to climb into and out of, and guardrails ensure the child will not fall out in the middle of the night. The right toddler bed can be a safe, enjoyable place for your toddler to sleep.
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Function
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A toddler bed serves as a transition bed between a crib and an adult twin-sized bed. Because they are lower than an adult bed, toddler beds are easier for toddlers to climb into on their own. An active toddler will sometimes learn to climb out of a crib, which is unsafe. Also, once toddlers are potty trained, they need to be able to get to the bathroom in the middle of the night if necessary.
Time Frame
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Most toddlers are ready for a toddler bed some time between the ages of 18 months and 3 years. You should not rush to move your child out of the crib because you think it's time or because you have a new baby coming. The transition can be difficult for a toddler who's attached to her familiar crib. Make sure you don't try to switch beds at the same time that you implement other big changes such as starting preschool or potty training.
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Features
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Toddler beds are close to the ground to make it easy for children to climb in and out. They usually have guardrails attached to one or both sides to prevent falling out in the middle of the night. The guard rails also help your child make the transition because they provide a visual barrier similar to what he's used to seeing on his crib. Many toddler beds also have features such as cartoon character designs or bright, interesting colors that make them appealing for kids. Some have extendable pieces that allow them to be converted into a twin-sized bed when your child is older.
Size
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Most toddler bed mattresses are the same size as crib mattresses. The guardrail extends about two inches above the surface of the mattress. According to the American Society for Testing and Materials, the bed posts should extend no more than 0.06 inches higher than the end panel. Most toddler beds can be used until a child reaches 50 pounds.
Considerations
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Some children have a hard time transitioning to a toddler bed. You can make the move easier for your child by letting him pick out the bed and choose new bedding for it. If the bed requires assembly, let your child help put it together so he'll feel ownership of it and be excited about the new change. Put the toddler bed in the same place in his room where his crib used to be and follow the same bedtime routine you have always used. Don't be surprised if his sleep is disturbed at first, and be prepared to go back to the crib for a while if necessary.
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