How to Prevent Children From Getting Out of Cribs

Babies will use every available resource to climb out of the crib.

As your child grows and becomes more active, he will eventually realize that he can climb out of his crib with a little effort. Although this behavior is a part of development, it is also dangerous. Your baby could injure himself while attempting to climb out of his crib. Additionally, this behavior increases the risk that your baby will have access to roam around his room or the home without your knowledge and watchful eye. If you are not ready to move your baby to a toddler bed, there are a few actions you can take to keep him in the crib.

Instructions

1. Keep the crib's side rails up whenever your baby is inside. Lower the mattress inside the crib as soon as your baby is able to maintain a sitting position. Lower the mattress to a point where the baby cannot pull himself over the sides. Lower the mattress to its lowest setting when your baby begins to stand.

2. Remove all items large enough to stand on as soon as your baby can stand. This includes crib bumpers, toys, stuffed animals and pillows. Your child can use these to reach the top of the crib and pull herself out.

3. Place the crib away from windows, other beds, dresser and tables in the room. Your child can position his foot against these items through the slats in the crib and use it to push himself out of the crib.

4. Place your baby in her crib and stand where you can see her but she cannot see you. When she attempts to climb out of the crib, tell her no in a calm voice and place her back in the crib. Do this until she does not try to climb out. Do not reward her behavior by giving her extra attention or putting her in your bed after she attempts to climb out.

Tips & Warnings

• The crib's side rails should exceed three-fourths of your child's height. For example, if your child is 24 inches tall, the side rails should measure at least 42 inches. Move your child to another bed when the crib's side rails no longer meet this requirement or he is 35 inches tall or more.

• Place pillows and padding around your baby's crib and on nearby surfaces. This will protect him if he does climb out.

References

• Kids Healthworks: Crib Safety
• Kids Health: Preventing Injuries From Falling, Climbing and Grabbing
• Baby Center: My Toddler is Climbing Out of His Crib