Deciding the right age to switch your toddler from their crib to a "big kid bed" is different for every child. Some parents are forced to transition the child early if they have an acrobatic child who can crawl out of the crib. Some families are forced because a new sibling is on the way, and they don't want to purchase a new crib. Whatever the scenario, it is a decision that will have to be made eventually. Whether the toddler transitions from a crib to a toddler bed, or a twin mattress, or simply the crib with the front taken off, the decision is never easy. Twin Mattress Many parents opt to go straight from the crib to a twin-sized mattress flat on the floor to avoid spending extra money in between beds. Then when the child gets older and is less likely to fall out of bed, parents can move the mattress onto box springs and a bed frame. Some parents worry about their child falling out of a regular bed. A side rail can be added to the mattress or bed frame to help prevent this from happening. Having a twin bed for your child may seem like a waste of space that could be used for toys, clothes, or toys. However, there are several advantages of having your toddler sleep in a twin bed. 1.Parents can sit on the bed with the toddler to read stories, snuggle, and even sleep with the child if necessary. 2. The child has more room to stretch out and roll around. 3. The child can sleep on the same mattress until they move out. Buying a twin mattress may initially cost a little more than a toddler bed, but in the long run it is a good investment that can save you money. Toddler Bed Another option is to buy your child a small bed frame that fits the size of their crib mattress. These bed frames come with side rails to help keep your child from rolling out of bed. Toddler beds sit low to the ground, so if your child does fall out, he or she is less likely to be harmed. These beds are often designed in ways that are pleasing to children, and they will like having a bed just their size. The disadvantages of a toddler bed are: 1. If you need the crib for a new baby, you will have to buy a new crib mattress for either the toddler bed or the crib. 2. Your child will grow out of a toddler bed in a couple of years. 3. Parents can't sit on the bed with their children. Toddler beds often only hold up to 50 lbs. maximum. Toddler beds are usually fairly inexpensive, however keep in mind your child won’t be able to sleep in one for very long. Crib with Front Rail Removed Many cribs today can be adapted into a toddler bed. You simply have to take off the front rail, and you can even install a small side rail covering half of the crib for your child to prevent them from rolling out. This makes the crib a lot like a toddler bed. This is a great option if you don't need the crib for a younger sibling yet. These crib beds are a great transition between sleeping in a crib and needing a larger mattress. There are several ways you can help transition your toddler to a big kid bed. Most children will eventually end up in a twin mattress.
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