How to Stop a Child Climbing Out of the Crib

Between the ages of two and three, children are usually ready to move from a crib to a bed. Some start climbing out of the crib earlier, unafraid of falling. Once a child is out of the crib, the house becomes a place of adventure but full of additional dangers. Parents can follow a few simple steps to keep pre-toddler children in the crib before the eventual move to a bed.

Instructions

1. Let down the crib mattress. Put the springs on the lowest setting. This increases the distance from the mattress to the top of the crib rail.

2. Move the crib away from other furniture. A dresser or bookshelf in close proximity to a crib aids the escape. Children can pull themselves onto these pieces of furniture and shimmy down using shelves or drawers as steps.

3. Remove climbing aids in the crib. Thick bumper pads, blankets and toys can give children a boost over the rail.

4. Interrupt the action. Parents who walk in on children climbing out of the crib should provide firm instructions not to repeat the behavior. If the climbing is not repeated, praise and a reward should be given. Any behavior followed by positive consequences is likely to be repeated.

5. Buy a crib tent. These fit over the top of the crib and attach to the rails. They prevent children from hoisting a leg over the rail.

6. Give in when all else fails. The time is right for a toddler or floor-level bed. Meanwhile, place the crib mattress on the floor. Put a gate on the bedroom door to prevent the child from having access to the remainder of the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Push floor-level beds against a wall and use a bed rail.

• Don't place pillows around the crib as a solution. They can shift and fail to cushion a fall.