Getting a Big Kid Bed
There is something about moving your little one into a big kid bed that yanks at the heart. While she may still only be a few years old, moving from a crib to a real bed signifies a big change in your child's life. Beds for kids are more than just a place to sleep. A bed is a refuge, a symbol, a fort, a ship, a treasure chest and a hundred other things. Make the transition from crib to bed easy for you and your child with a few simple strategies.
Kids Beds Furniture
There are several things to consider when buying kids beds. Do you want a transitional bed like a toddler bed that may be easier on your child, or do you want something that will last into the teen years that will be easier on your wallet? There are pros and cons to each.
Beds designed for kids can make the transition from crib to bed easier, especially if they feature beloved characters or motifs. Beds shaped like cars, space ships or princess carriages are appealing to imaginative toddlers and almost guarantee that the old crib won't be missed. The small size of these beds also makes them feel cozy and secure, something that will be appreciated by your child, especially if he is still quite young. Toddler beds are also usually fairly affordable. Most manufacturers realize that these beds are really a temporary piece of furniture and price them accordingly. Most toddler beds use a crib-sized mattress, so assuming your child isn't moving because another sibling is on the way, you can use your old mattress in the new bed.
Unfortunately, toddler beds also get old pretty fast. While your three-year-old may love Thomas the train, the same kid may feel silly sleeping in a Thomas bed at age 5 or 6. Toddler beds are really only designed to hold about 50-70 pounds, so older kids shouldn't use them. Getting rid of a toddler bed can be a challenge too. Many parents try to sell them, but there are so many available that this can be difficult. Some parents reason that a new toddler bed is so cheap it isn't worth looking into a used one.
Alternative for a Kid's First Bed
A twin size bed is another option for your kid's first bed. While generally more expensive than a toddler bed, twin beds are more versatile and can last into adulthood, or at least to the teen years. Twin bedding is available in many different styles, so you can still appeal to your little one with his favorite characters on the sheets—something that is easily changed as the child grows. While a twin bed may cost more up front, it will cost less overall because you won't be paying for the twin bed and the toddler bed as well. One option to consider is buying a bunk bed and using only the top bunk with the attached guard rail. As your child grows, you can add the bottom bunk for another sibling or simply elevate the bed into a loft bed, creating more floor space in the child's room.
Tips for Switching to a Big Kid Bed
- If your child is leaving the crib because a baby is on the way, make the transition two to three months before the baby is born. This way, the older child won't feel misplaced by the new baby.
- Wait until your child is at least 2 years old to transition to a big kid bed. Any earlier, and you may be creating a safety hazard.
- Move into a toddler bed or big kid bed before your child reaches 3 ½ years old or you may have more trouble with the transition.
- If switching to a twin-size bed, use safety rails until your child is at least 4 years old.
- Let your child use her old crib bedding if possible. At the very least, let her keep her favorite blanket.
- Give your child a stuffed animal with his new bed. Tell him the animal likes to sleep in the big bed and wants him to sleep there too. This may help him feel less alone at night.
- Take your child shopping for a new bed if possible. If not, let her pick out her new sheets and bedding.
