The Best Advice For Switching To A Toddler Bed

 I haven't really had to deal with this yet, so the timing couldn't have been better and this is definitely useful advice, don't you think?

1. Don't Transition Any Earlier Than Needed

How long should you wait to transition to a toddler bed? As long as possible, say countless Circle of Moms members, including Tracy S.: “My advice is to keep them cribbed as long as it is safe and they are sleeping well.” As Mickie T. shares, if your child does try to climb out of her crib, then it's time to transition to a toddler bed: “I think if your child isn't getting out or attempting to get out, don't mess with a good thing. If they are and could possibly harm themself then I would switch.”

2. Buy “Big Kid” Bedding

To get your child excited to switch from crib to toddler bed, moms like Heather P. suggest having your child choose new big kid bedding: “We also took him and let him pick out new bedding. He picked Cars of course and a cat pillow pet … I feel the new bedding helped him out a lot.”

Ironically, we have Cars bedding here ready and waiting for him to make the switch.

3. Prepare For Falls

After sleeping in a crib, toddlers are unaccustomed to the freedom of movement that toddler beds offer. As a result, it's important to take safety precautions in case your child rolls off her new toddler bed. Marla T., for example, suggests placing pillows on the ground: “It is so low to the ground that I was able to just put a couple of pillows next to the bed in case she fell out.” Other moms recommending placing a mattress on the ground, or using bed rails.

You can check out the rest of the tips on Pop Sugar Moms. When you're finished reading, leave us a comment and share your tips for a smooth transition.