Toddler Beds

As with all baby furniture, toddler beds must adhere to a list of established safety features, and are available in a wide variety of styles, colors and materials. They are designed to accommodate a standard-sized crib mattress, which should be firm and surrounded by bed rails that raise about 2 inches above the mattress. These rails help keep the child from rolling out of the bed while asleep, but of course do not have the confining effect of the standard crib.

The average toddler should be able to use the bed until around age 5, or when he or she has reached 50 pounds, whichever comes first. Toddler beds are typically easy to assemble, with a frame consisting of two halves that can be easily pushed together, with the mattress placed on top. Most have model number and manufacturing dates on a sticker inside of the headboard or on the side of the mattress platform. If you’re purchasing a secondhand bed, you can use these numbers to check for any product recalls. Of more immediate concern is making sure the bed frame is not covered with lead-based paint, which can flake off and cause lead poisoning, if ingested.

Many toddlers are excited about making the switch to a “big boy” or “big girl” bed. For those who are hesitant, there are steps you can take to ease the transition. First, if possible, let them help pick out the new bed and select bedding for it, perhaps with a favorite cartoon character. Let the child help make the bed, and put their favorite stuffed animals, blankets or other toys in it.

If a child is reluctant, it can help to place the bed in the room for a few weeks before transitioning from the crib. Or, try having your toddler take daytime naps in the bed for a week or so before moving on to sleeping in it at night. Throughout everything, keep their bedtime routine consistent, and give them plenty of praise and encouragement about the new milestone they have reached.

To lessen any problems, don’t move your toddler into a bed when another stressful event is occurring in his life. Big changes like starting potty training, the arrival of a new sibling, or starting a new day care can make a young child reluctant to abandon the security of his crib.