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Do you have a crib climber? Considering a switch to the big-kid bed?
A crib climber is not necessarily a child who is ready for a big-kid bed. In fact, moving to a toddler bed too early often creates new sleep challenges. Before making the switch, focus on safety, understand the developmental phase your child is experiencing, and consider alternatives that may allow your child to remain safely in the crib longer.
Do you have a child trying to climb out of the crib?
Do you wonder if they are ready for a toddler bed because they are trying to climb out of their crib?
It is typical for children between 18 months and 2.5 years of age to start climbing out of the crib. Climbing out of the crib does NOT mean that they do not like their crib. Climbing out of crib does NOT mean that they are ready for a toddler bed. All it means is that they are practicing their newfound climbing skills. During this important physical developmental leap, it is important for children to practice their climbing skills during the daytime shift at the park. We do not want them practicing this skill in the crib at night. After all, SAFETY FIRST!
Technically, children are not ready for a toddler or a “big bed” until they are 3 or 3.5 and moving them out of the crib sooner than they are ready leads to massive sleep regressions. My recommendation is using anti-crib climbing pajamas and/or a crib tent to keep them safe in their crib.
If you are experiencing this problem, then you will absolutely want to download my free guide on Sleep regression guide to help guide you through this difficult developmental phase.
There are also 2 products that can be helpful to stop the climbing behavior at night time. Sometimes parents only have to use these products for a short period of time until their child moves through the climbing phase.
My first recommendation to guarantee beautiful blissful sleep is to implement the crib tent.
Order your crib tent today!
Ages: 18 months and up
What is it?
A see through protective pop up tent with plenty of room for child to move around. This inhibits children from climbing out of the crib.
Why I love it?
Give all moms peace of mind; protect your child from climbing out of the crib.
With a high-end 55" x 52.5" x 28" baby safety net, your child stays safe all night long.
Designed in the USA by Pro Baby Safety
The highest quality construction available on Amazon. 100% satisfaction guarantee—no strings attached.
The other option is to try anti-crib climbing pajamas. Sometimes this can be the perfect solution, especially if your child uses their legs to climb out of the crib!
Order your Little Grounders today!
Ages:
What is it?
Little Grounders™ are patent pending climb-limiting pajamas for babies and toddlers that help keep little ones from climbing out of the crib.
Why I love it?
The one-piece pajamas have a flexible piece of fabric connecting the legs together. This limits the ability to lift the legs to climb while still providing enough flexibility to comfortably walk and play. They can no longer climb out of the crib so you know they are safe!!
Remember, it is normal to have sleep regressions. It sure is nice to know what it is and how to solve it. I think you will like my Sleep regression guide.
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Not necessarily.
Many toddlers begin climbing because they are practicing a new developmental skill—not because they dislike the crib or are ready for the freedom of a big-kid bed. Physical ability and developmental readiness are not the same thing. In my experience, moving a child too early often leads to bedtime battles, sleep regressions, and repeated trips out of bed.
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Every child is different, but many sleep experts recommend waiting until at least age 3, and often closer to 3½ or 4 years old when possible. By that age, children have more impulse control and a better understanding of boundaries, making the transition much smoother.
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It can.
Many children experience temporary sleep disruptions after moving from a crib to a bed because they suddenly have the freedom to get out of bed, explore their room, or seek out their parents. The transition is often easier when it happens at the right developmental stage and when parents have a clear plan in place.
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Safety is the first priority.
Before transitioning to a bed, consider strategies that may help keep your child safe while remaining in the crib, such as adjusting sleepwear, lowering the mattress, removing climbing opportunities, or discussing other safety options with your pediatrician. Many children move through the climbing phase relatively quickly.
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Look for emotional and cognitive readiness, not just physical ability.
Children who are ready are typically able to understand and follow simple bedtime expectations, remain in bed with reminders, and show genuine interest in making the transition. Readiness is often more about maturity than age.
Ready for a Big-Kid Bed?
Not necessarily
Usually not by itself
Possibly
Good sign
Good sign
Often yes
Not automatically
Behavior
Climbing out of crib
Turning 2 years old
Asking for a big-kid bed
Following bedtime rules
Staying in bed during naps
Age 3.5–4 years
New sibling arriving