From Crib to Big-Kid Bed: When (and How) to Make the Switch?

linjiaying
Aug 21, 2025
3 min read

When it comes to moving your toddler from a crib to a big-kid bed, parents usually have two big questions: When should we make the switch? and How do we actually do it?

If you’ve landed here looking for advice, let me start with the most important piece:👉 If you’re sleep training or your little one isn’t yet sleeping through the night, the answer to “when” is simple—not now.

Why You Don’t Need to Rush

Many parents feel pressure to transition early, but the truth is, there’s no need to hurry. I’ve worked with plenty of families whose three-year-olds were still happily snoozing in their cribs. Not once have I heard a parent say, “I wish we’d moved them out sooner.”

There’s also a common myth that the longer a child stays in the crib, the harder it will be to move them out. But in reality, that “theory” just doesn’t hold up.

The crib is a safe, familiar space. And if you’re starting sleep training, keeping as much as possible the same—bedroom, sheets, lovie, crib—will make the process far smoother. Once your toddler is sleeping independently and through the night, the move to a big-kid bed will be much easier.

In fact, a well-rested toddler is far less likely to wander out of their room at night, which is the biggest challenge parents face during this transition.

Preparing for the Switch

Let’s say your child is already a solid sleeper, or maybe you have another reason to move them now. Preparation is key.

Talk About It – Let your toddler know what’s coming. Set a date, explain the change, and frame it positively. You want them to feel excited, not anxious.
Keep It Low-Key – While it’s important to prepare them, don’t turn it into a huge production. Overhyping the event can actually create stress and resistance.
Let Them Have Input – Bring them along to pick out the bed (yes, even if it means navigating an Ikea adventure complete with unnecessary colanders). Encourage them to choose sheets, pillows, or even a new stuffed friend. This sense of ownership makes the bed feel special and safe.
Set It Up Familiar – Place the new bed where the crib used to be. Keep the room the same—same layout, same bedtime routine, same schedule. Too many changes at once can overwhelm your toddler.

The First Night

On the big night, keep everything predictable: same dinner, same bedtime routine, same lights out. Tell your toddler you’re proud of them, but avoid overemphasizing the “big kid” angle. Toddlers are often unsure about growing up, and low-key encouragement usually works best.

From here, one of three things may happen:

Scenario 1: Your child adapts immediately. (If this is you—lucky you! Celebrate.)
Scenario 2: They adjust at first but start testing limits after a week or two.
Scenario 3: They start testing boundaries right away—leaving the room, calling for you, or playing instead of sleeping.

Handling Nighttime Battles

If your toddler begins stalling or leaving their room, stay calm and consistent. Here’s how:

Give a clear warning the first time.
State the consequence if it happens again.
Follow through if needed.

Consistency is everything. The key is keeping things firm but fair, without creating big emotional meltdowns.

Remember: You’re in Charge

Here’s the part most parents need to hear—you are the boss. It’s almost guaranteed your toddler will resist at some point. They’ll ask to go back to their crib, call you into the room multiple times, or beg for water.

As tempting as it is to give in “just this once,” holding your ground is essential. If you let them climb back into your bed or return to the crib, the transition can drag on for months.

Instead, project calm authority, stick to the routine, and enforce the rules with consistency. It might feel tough in the moment, but it will help your child adjust much faster.

Final Thoughts

The crib-to-bed transition can feel like a big step, but with preparation, consistency, and a little patience, your toddler will settle into their new sleep space.

✨ Need extra support with this transition—or help getting your toddler to sleep through the night before you make the switch? Book a free discovery call and let’s chat about how I can help.