Besrey - Aug 29 2025

When and How to Transition from Crib to Toddler Bed

Transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed is one of the major developmental milestones for any child. It’s normal to be nervous about this change as a parent. Every child is different, and it’s important to balance safety and comfort with your child’s readiness to move from their crib into a larger bed. Most experts recommend moving your child to a toddler bed before they can climb out of their crib.

Just like potty training, moving from a crib to a bed can be a difficult change for toddlers to adapt to. In this article, we’re sharing our top tips on how to safely transition your child from a crib to a toddler bed, what signs to look out for, and how to streamline the process for you and your child.

When Is the Right Time to Transition Your Child to a Toddler Bed?

There’s no specific age when children should be transitioned from their crib into a toddler bed, but experts recommend that you make the transition before your child can climb out of their crib and hurt themselves. Most toddlers will start to display signs of this between the ages of 18 and 24 months, when they’re around 35 inches tall.

Every baby is different, and some might try to climb out of their cribs earlier, while others may be comfortable in their cribs. If your child isn’t trying to climb their crib, they can usually stay in their crib beyond the age of 2. However, it’s important to consider their safety as they grow and ensure they don’t become too attached to their crib, as this can make the transition to a toddler bed more challenging.

Some experts believe waiting until your child is closer to 3 years old can give you a smoother transition with fewer sleep disruptions. The ‘right time’ to make the change will depend on your child, their safety, and their comfort.

Signs Your Toddler is Ready for a Big Bed

Your toddler will let you know when they’re ready to move to a big bed, even if they can’t verbally say it. Some toddlers may need to make the change earlier for their own safety, while others can stay in their crib for a little longer.

Instead of stressing about moving your toddler from a crib to bed by a specific age, it’s better to look for these signs:

•Your toddler has climbed out of their crib or is trying to.
•The crib railing is now lower than their chest, or they’re at least 35 inches tall.
•They are happy to stay in their crib and understand it’s their space.
•They are potty training and developing a daily routine.
•They can safely be left unsupervised for short time periods.
•Your child has outgrown the size of their crib, and a bed would be more comfortable.
•They’re asking for a ‘big bed’, especially if they have older siblings with their own beds.

How to Transition Your Child Smoothly from Crib to Toddler Bed

Just like teaching your child how to ride a bike, transitioning them from a crib to a toddler bed takes time. You want to involve your toddler in the process and take it slowly to help maintain your current bedtime routine, while making sure their new bed is safe for them.

Here are 5 things you can do to make the crib-to-toddler-bed transition easier:

1. Choosing the right time for your child

Let your child guide you in determining when the best time is to move them from their crib to a toddler bed. However, you want to avoid having too many changes happening at once.

Experts recommend avoiding making this change while going to a new day-care or if you’re moving house. If you’re getting ready to welcome another child, aim to move your older child into their toddler bed at least a month before their younger sibling arrives to avoid any negative connotations.

2. Establish a bedtime routine

Maintaining or establishing a bedtime routine for your toddler can make this transition easier. The crib-to-bed move can be a challenge for some toddlers, and having a routine, such as a nightly story time or bath, can offer some much-needed familiarity and comfort. If you don’t already have a nighttime routine, now is a great time to start creating one.

3. Involve your toddler in the transition

While your toddler is still little, you can get them involved in this milestone moment. There are easy ways to get them excited about moving from their crib into a toddler bed, including letting them choose their bedding and accessories like nightlights and blankets. Talk to them about the change and make them as comfortable as you can.

4. Child-proof their bedroom and sleeping area

If they’re using the same room as their crib had been in, place the bed in the exact same space. Although you’ll likely use a bed rail when your toddler is sleeping in their bed, it’s a good idea to child-proof their room. Cover plug sockets, ensure furniture is anchored in place, and use a cord cleat to keep curtain cords out of reach.

5. Respond calmly to challenges

Moving your baby from a crib to a toddler bed is a big moment for both of you. It can be a challenging time for everyone. Stay calm and be consistent when taking your child back to their new bed if they wake up in the middle of the night. You can also use tools like a night light or a sleep trainer clock to give them a visual signal of when it’s okay to get out of bed. Don’t forget to reward their success and celebrate their progress! When your child is moving to their toddler bed, they’ll also be the perfect age to get started with a Besrey Balance Bike.

Make the Transition from Crib to Toddler Bed Easy with Besrey