How to Help a Toddler Adjust to a Bed

Helping your toddler transition to a toddler bed could take time and effort on both of your parts. Be patient with your toddler as you help him make the transition. While some toddlers might look forward to the experience, others find it to be a difficult adjustment. Be understanding about it and encourage your toddler to stay in the bed, not only at night, but also for naps. Start a bedtime routine to help your toddler wind down and stay close to him until he falls asleep. Eventually your toddler will be used to the new bed and comfortable with it.

• 1

  Talk to your toddler about sleeping in a "big kid bed." If the toddler has older siblings or cousins, tell your toddler how she will sleep in a "big kid bed" just like her older family members.

• 2

  Take your toddler bed shopping and let him pick out the bed. Allow him to choose the bedding as well.

• 3

  Put the bed in the toddler's room where the crib used to be. Allow her to help you put the bedding on the bed. Place an old crib blanket that is familiar to the child on the bed to help with the transition.

• 4

  Lay your toddler down in the bed at nap time. Allowing the toddler to sleep in the bed during naps will help him adjust to the bed. Lay next to him until he falls asleep.

• 5

  Create a bedtime routine and follow it consistently. Begin with a warm bath followed by a bottle or sippy cup of warm milk. According to the Baby Center website, the amino acid l-Tryptophan found in milk can help you get sleepy by raising serotonin levels.

• 6

  Lay the toddler down in bed to continue the nighttime routine. Read her a book, sing songs or tell a story. Allow her to hold on to something for security, such as her old crib blanket or a stuffed animal.

• 7

  Turn out the lights and use a night-light to add some light in the room. This will make your toddler more comfortable if he is afraid of the dark. Stay by your toddler until he has fallen asleep.