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Is He Ready for a Big-Kid Bed? When and How to Make the Move

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Patty Onderko on Aug 4, 2011 at 11:47AM

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Is He Ready for a Big-Kid Bed? When and How to Make the Move

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17 Strategies for a Smooth Crib-to-Bed Switch

Maybe you need the crib for the kid cookin’ in your belly. Maybe you’re sick of breaking your back bending over to change the crib sheet. Or maybe your preschooler is already vaulting out of the crib on his own and heading toward the playroom in the middle of the night. Whatever your situation, you’ll likely know when it’s time to make the move to a big bed. Here’s how to get it done.

Time it Right
Try to avoid starting the transition at the same time as other big milestones or family events, such as starting school, moving, or getting a new sitter. And if you need the crib for a new sibling, begin the process long before the baby arrives so that your child doesn’t associate the two things (loss of his cozy bed with his new brother).