Difficult bed transition at age 2: How to facilitate the move to a big kid bed?

Categories: Children's Room
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Transition from baby crib to child bed:
facilitating the change

The transition from a crib to a big kid bed is an event in a child's life, as well as in their parents'. First, you need to recognize the right moment, know how to choose the bed, and finally, support your child through this transition. Here are our tips for a smooth transition.

What are the signs indicating it's time to switch to a big kid bed?

There are no strict rules that define an age for transitioning from a crib to a child's bed. The transition occurs between the ages of 2 and 6, depending on the child's maturity. You should observe certain signs that indicate the child is starting to feel cramped in their crib and that it's time to give them more freedom.

  • The child climbs over the bars: This is often the first sign of emancipation. As soon as they try to climb out of their bed, it becomes urgent to change beds to avoid falls.
  • Restless sleep: Some children sleep poorly because they feel cramped in their baby bed.
  • They express a desire to change: Some children show interest in their older siblings' or parents' beds and ask for a big bed.
  • They don't try to get out of their bed? In this case, there's no need to rush the change, especially if they still feel secure in their crib.

To learn more about the ideal time to change your baby's bed, check out our article on the subject

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Difficult bed change at 2 years old: how to manage this transition smoothly?

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At 2 years old, transitioning to a big kid bed can be more complicated, as the child is still very attached to their environment. They may perceive this change as a loss of reference points and show anxiety at bedtime.

[💡 Tip: To make this transition smoother, you can first introduce a floor mattress next to their crib and suggest they nap there. This will allow them to get used to it gently before permanently moving to a bed for a 2-year-old.]

For some children, the absence of bars can create a feeling of insecurity. Installing a removable safety rail or positioning the bed against a wall can reassure the child and prevent frequent night wakings.

How to successfully transition from a crib to a big kid bed?

1️⃣ Explaining the change

Take time to discuss with your child before buying the bed to help them understand the reasons for the upcoming change. They are gaining autonomy every day, which means they are also becoming more responsible and better able to understand the evolution of their living environment.

2️⃣ Involve your child in selecting the bed

It's important that your child likes the new bed. It is therefore advisable to involve them in its selection. In-store or online, review the different models of children's beds and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.

3️⃣ Possibly keep both beds for some time

If you have enough space and don't need the crib immediately for another child, you can keep both beds in the room for a few weeks or even months.

4️⃣ Maintain their reference points

  • Place the new bed where the old one was to avoid disrupting the child's environment.
  • Keep their usual stuffed animals and blankets so they can find familiar scents.
  • Maintain bedtime rituals (story, cuddle, nightlight) to help them feel reassured.

5️⃣ Enforce strict rules

Your child now enjoys complete freedom of movement. You must be clear about the limits: once in bed, they should not get out until morning.

How to choose your child's big kid bed?

Consider bed safety

  • Add side rails to prevent falls.
  • Prefer a low bed so that the child can easily get in and out.
  • Install a bedside table with a nightlight to reassure them at night.

Don't forget storage

A bed with built-in drawers or a headboard with storage spaces can be a good option to optimize room space.

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What type of bed to choose?

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The Montessori bed: ideal for your 2-year-old child

  • A mattress on the floor to prevent falls.
  • Ideal for promoting autonomy and self-confidence.
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The loft bed: for older children

  • Allows for saving space in the room.
  • Reserved for children over 6 years old for safety reasons.

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