Question Title: A new big boy bed or crib?

Forum: The Child Behavioral Health Forum
Topic: Normal Child Development

Our family is expecting our 2nd child in about 6 weeks. We have a 19 mo old now. He has no problems at all going to bed, actually asks at night to go "ni-night." He loves his crib and has known no other bed, since we have never had him sleep in our bed. He is perfectly content to stay in there during a quick shower, too. With the new baby coming, we are wondering when the best time is to convert him to a "big boy" bed. Since he is so attached to his crib, we don't want him to be upset at the inevitable time that his sibling takes over the crib, but we are a bit apprehensive of making the transition before the baby is born since he doesn't seem "ready." We were considering just using a bassinet for the baby for a couple months and keeping our son in the crib till he's 22 mos or so. When will we know when he's "ready" for a big bed and what is the right time to make the transition, before the baby comes or after? How can we make the transition as easy as possible for him? Thank you!

Dear Aimee,

You would be wise to allow your son to remain in his crib for as long as he is comfortable with it. There's no reason to move him out prematurely. In fact, to do so is to invite problems because he will likely have difficulty remaining in a regualr bed. There's absolutely no harm in having him remain in his crib even until the age of three or four, at which time he'll probably be too large for it. He's giving no sign that he's ready to move into a regular bed. In fact, children of such a young age really aren't prepared to sleep in a bed.

Too often parents force their kids out of cribs because of a mistaken sense that they 'should' do this. In your case, an additional reason to keep your son in his crib is the arrival of his sibling. He shouldn't be forced out of his bed to make room for his sibling. Instead, obtain another crib. You will be very happy that you let your son remain in the bed he loves. He, and you, will sleep better if you allow him to remain.

This information is provided for purposes of general education. Always address particular questions about your child's health to your pediatrician or health care providers.

*Keyword: Sleep, Bedtime, Crib

[The Child Behavioral Health Forum]      [The Child Behavioral Health Forum Archives]