Deciding to move a toddler from her crib to a big-kid bed is an exciting transition for both parents and child. Choosing between a toddler bed and a twin bed depends on a number of factors and is generally more of a time-consuming decision for first-time parents. Understand the differences between the two, and then assess which would be the better fit for your situation; include safety as the number-one factor. Most parents move their child from a crib to a bed anywhere from one and a half to three years old. The decision to switch can come from the constant jail-breaks your toddler performs to get out of his crib. recommends beginning the transition when “he’s simply too big or too active to sleep in a crib anymore.” Both types of beds provide a new environment for him; toddler beds can be enticing with character decorations, while twin beds can seem a little more boring for kids looking to move into a big-kid bed. A toddler bed is a transitional-sized bed perfect for the little bodies of 2-year-olds.
They are low to the ground and fit standard crib mattresses. Toddler beds are convenient options if the crib mattress is available, but many times the addition of a new baby warrants that the mattress stay in the crib. Twin beds require the additional purchase of a twin mattress but are options suitable for a longer period of time if that size mattress is already available in the family or if the coming of a new baby requires an additional mattress anyway. Toddler beds, being so close to the ground, are a very safe option. If you choose to keep the mattress in the frame, guard rails are a necessity to reduce the child's risk of being injured during a fall out of the higher bed. Most toddler beds come equipped with side rails, but both the toddler and twin beds need them to keep your child safe.Toddler beds range in price from about $150 to $300, while twin beds start at about $150 and up. Each also requires the purchase of a mattress: A crib mattress and twin mattress typically start at about $100.
Also include in the decision other children; many people choose a twin simply based on the need to use the crib mattress for another baby. When choosing a bed style, parents should also consider the bedding requirements. Toddler beds, using the crib mattresses, also fit the crib bedding from baby. If this will be reused for another sibling, twin bedding can be a functional choice in that parents may rather buy sheets for a larger bed than additional sheets for a crib mattress. Although toddler beds offer more choices in characters or colorful designs, twin bedding comes in a variety of styles that appeal to kids. The Effects of Moving on a Two-Year-Old What Ages Are Toddler Beds Designed For? What Firmness of Mattress Is Best for a Toddler? Recommended Mattresses for Children How to Stop a Toddler From Falling Out of Bed The Safety of Iron Cribs Signs of a High IQ in Toddlers Pillow Safety for Toddlers Tips for Keeping an 18-Month-Old in a Toddler Bed
Are There Five Foods to Help Increase Your IQ? How to Stop Children from Falling Out of Bed Sleep Training a Toddler Reasons a Baby Won't Take a Bottle Before Bed How to Get a 14-Month-Old Toddler to Sleep at Night How to Break the Habit of Kids Sleeping in Their Parents' BedToddlerIf your 2-year-old (or dexterous 18-month-old) has started to make like Houdini and attempt to escape the confines of his crib, it’s probably time to let him graduate to a big-kid bed. Got a crib that converts to a toddler bed? Then you’re all set once you make the change. But if you need to buy a toddler bed, read on.Your Toddler Bed OptionsYou have two choices for your tot’s new sweet-dreams spot:A toddler bed, which is a small bed frame that fits a crib-size mattress and often comes disguised as a spaceship, princess castle or sports car.A twin-size mattress and bed frame and portable safety rails.Both are safe, so let these benefits and drawbacks to each guide your decision.
Buying a Toddler BedPros:Bed frames for children are pretty affordable for toddler gear, ranging in price from $50 to $200. Plus, most come with safety rails and accept standard crib mattresses, so you don’t need to buy these extras.The fun designs and colors on toddler bed frames can up the excitement about transitioning from crib to bed.Most toddler beds are low to the ground, which is good news for your little one, who’s likely eager to climb in and out on his own.Cons:The weight limit for toddler beds is 50 pounds, which means your tot will eventually outgrow it. Another bummer: You won’t be able to hop in for a cuddle during his bedtime routine.Your mischievous little monkey may bounce out of bed (intentionally or not) in the middle of the night since toddler beds are so low to the ground.Many toddler beds are plastic, so they may not be especially durable.What to look for:A frame that holds a standard-size crib mattress. If the crib mattress you have doesn’t fit snugly into the bed frame, buy one that does.
Gaps between the mattress and the frame pose an entrapment hazard.The toddler bed you buy has to be tough enough for your rough-and-tumble tot (and maybe some visiting pals as well).Side rails — or a toddler bed that lets you attach them. These help restless sleepers (and tossers and tumblers) stay put.A smooth finish, rounded edges, and hardware that doesn't stick out, so your pipsqueak doesn’t get poked.The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification. Look for this sticker on the packaging for any toddler bed and safety rails you buy. (It guarantees the product has met certain safety standards.)Buying a Twin BedPros:You’ll get more use out of it than a toddler bed, since it can hold your honey through high school (and beyond).Some twin bed frames feature kid-friendly designs or headboards that can get your sweetie psyched about sleeping there.It will be big enough to host you too, which comes in handy for snuggling while your child drifts off to dreamland.Cons:You’ll need to buy a twin-size mattress ($150 to $1,000), a twin-size toddler bed frame ($100 to $300), and portable safety rails ($20 to $100 each, and you’ll need one for each side of the bed that’s not flush against a wall).