Big bed, big stress? How to help your child adjust
Guest blog by sleep expert Karen Claes from Van Gaap Naar Slaap
The transition from a crib to a bigger bed may sound simple, but for your toddler it can be a big change. Suddenly your child has more freedom and less physical boundary, which can lead to climbing out of bed, difficulty falling asleep, or waking during the night. In this blog, you will discover how to make the transition calm and safe, without adding extra stress.
When is your child ready for a big bed?
Most children make the transition between 2.5 and 4 years old, but that does not mean every child is ready at that age. Look for these signs:
Your child asks for a bigger bed themselves
The crib has become too small or your child is climbing out
There are no major sleep difficulties in the current bed
Other factors such as a new sibling, a move, or starting school can influence whether the timing is right. Transitioning too early can sometimes lead to more sleep difficulties.
Common challenges
The transition asks for impulse control and independence, skills that are still developing at this age. As a result, your child may:
Come out of bed after the bedtime routine
Have difficulty falling asleep independently
Wake during the night or seek closeness
Other milestones, such as dropping the last nap or toilet training, can also temporarily influence sleep.
How to make the transition smoother
1. Understand the behaviour
Try to look at the need behind getting out of bed. Is your child feeling afraid, unsure, or simply not yet used to the new expectations?
2. Offer reassurance
Stay with your child for a short while until they feel calm if needed.
Later, you can gradually reduce this support and encourage more independence.
3. Be clear and consistent
Explain what you expect and stick to the agreements you make together. Setting boundaries does not mean you cannot be understanding or gentle.
4. Consider helpful tools
Sleep trainer: A visual cue that shows when it is time to sleep and when it is time to get up.
Reward system: Encourage small, achievable goals such as “stay in bed until the light turns green.”
Positive language: Say what you do expect (✔️ “Stay in bed”) instead of focusing on what you do not want (✖️ “Do not get out of bed”).
5. Give it time
Every toddler develops at their own pace. Patience is key. Small, gradual steps are often more effective than big changes all at once.
Comfort and protection for a peaceful night’s sleep
The transition to a big bed can feel stressful, but when you follow your child’s pace, offer clear guidance and use supportive tools, it often goes smoothly. Observe, support and stay patient, so sleep continues to feel safe and comforting.
A good mattress can also make a difference. The AeroSleep EvoDuo mattress has two sides, a firm side and a softer side. This makes it ideal for toddlers who are moving to a bigger bed, since you can switch depending on your child’s preference or the situation.
With the included 3D mattress protector, your child stays comfortable and dry, even during toilet training or episodes of night sweating. This helps make the transition to a big bed calmer and more reassuring.
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