Wait... Is It Time to Ditch the Crib?
Is It Time for the Big Kid Bed? Here’s How to Know (and What to Do Next)
Transitioning your child to a big kid bed is a major milestone — and if you're feeling a mix of excitement and low-key dread, you’re not alone.
I’ve coached so many families through this exact phase, and what I’ve learned is this: timing really matters. Not just for your child’s sleep, but for your sanity too.
So before you start Googling beds or rearranging the nursery, let’s take a step back and talk about how to know your child is truly ready — and how to make the switch without chaos, power struggles, or 3 a.m. hallway visits.
👀 First... What’s Driving This Transition?
There’s often pressure to make the switch early — and not all of it comes from your child. It can look like:
“My friend’s toddler moved at 2 — are we behind?”
“My mom says we should’ve done this months ago.”
“My older kid made the switch super easy — why is this one different?”
Here’s the thing: every child is different.
Your second is not your first.
Your niece is not your daughter.
And timelines that work for other families might not work for yours.
It’s not about comparison. It’s about readiness.
And No — Crib Climbing Doesn’t Automatically Mean It’s Time
Let’s clear up one of the biggest myths I hear:
“She’s climbing out of the crib, so it’s time for a bed, right?”
Not necessarily.
In most cases, crib climbing has more to do with a new motor skill milestone than sleep readiness. Translation? Your child isn’t trying to escape — they’re trying to practice.
So what can you do? Let them climb! Give them time during the day to explore and burn off that new physical energy. Because if you don’t… guess when they’ll do it?
Yep. At bedtime.
➡️ Want more on this? Read: Do You Have a Crib Climber?
So... When Is the Right Time?
Great question. Most kids are ready to transition between ages 3 and 4 — but age alone isn't the deciding factor.
Make sure your child has rock solid sleep skills both at bedtime and middle of night. Meaning, they do not sleep support to go to sleep or back to sleep.
If your child still “needs you” at bedtime or middle of night, they are NOT READY to take on the responsibility of being in a big kid bed. Sleep Training may be needed first (let’s talk to help your kiddo learn independent sleep skills).
Here’s what I encourage parents to look for:
✅ An understanding of time (like morning vs. nighttime)
✅ An ability to follow boundaries and rules (even if they test them)
✅ A basic grasp of consequences (“If I get out of bed, Mom comes in… not worth it”)
If your child is also potty training, a bed can support that next level of independence. But again — readiness, not rushing, is the name of the game.
How to Make the Transition Smooth (and Honestly, Kinda Fun)
Okay, so your child is ready. Here’s how to keep this transition from becoming a sleep sabotage:
✅ Lock Down the First 7 Days- This is where most behaviors pop up — testing boundaries, leaving the bed, calling out. Totally normal! But what matters is how you respond. Create a simple, consistent strategy so your child knows what to expect — and trust me, they will rise to meet it.
✅ Plan Ahead- Mark it on the calendar. Talk about it in advance. Let your child help pick out sheets or a special bedtime buddy for their new bed.
✅ Role Play- Practice bedtime routines and staying in bed with a stuffed animal. Make it playful! This helps set expectations before the first night arrives.
You’re Not Alone in This
This milestone can bring up big emotions — for your child and for you. It’s okay to feel unsure. That’s why I’m here.
If you’re wondering whether your child is ready, or if bedtime has become one big standoff... let’s talk. Together, we can create a sleep plan that feels good, honors your child’s development, and helps everyone get the rest they need.
You're doing a beautiful job — and your little one is growing in all the best ways.
Are you struggling with your child's sleep? Could you use some support?
The first step to see if I can help you achieve beautiful, blissful sleep is to schedule a 60 minute ZOOM sleep strategy session. Go to this link and complete the contact me form and I will be in touch within 24 hours with directions on how to schedule your Sleep Strategy Session.
Alternative Methods to Cry It Out
If you are still wondering if I can help, please know I do NOT advocate 'cry-it-out'. I am a Gentle Sleep Coach. If you want to learn about my guilt-free and gentle process, please go to these links.
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