Toddler Bedding
Toddler bedding must do three things: keep your child safe, entice your child to transition from the crib  to a bed, and facilitate a good night's sleep.
Toddler beds use the same size mattress as a crib. In fact, some cribs convert into toddler beds. If you don't know anything about either beds or mattresses it might help to read these guides first.
When to Move to a Toddler Bed
When your child starts crawling out of the crib, it's probably time to move to a big-kid bed. Although you'll want to wait until your child is ready to make the transition, you'll need to move your toddler if he or she is too big or active for a crib. This will happen around his/her second birthday. If you wait to long to make the transition, your toddler will soon be able to climb out of his crib which can be very dangerous. Also, if she/he is toilet training, a bed is more convenient for him/her to get out in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. The addition of a baby sibling is another occasion to move your child from the crib. Make sure that you make the transition well before he or she sees his new sibling taking over his or her crib. But beware, once your child has a taste of freedom, they just might want to get up in the middle of the night to play with you. Every child is different and will have different reactions to this change. Baby Center can give you advice about that.
Junior Design Advice
When your baby is an infant, you can make all the style choices. By age 2, you'll know whether Thomas the Tank Engine, princesses, or farm themes work best for your child. Since the key is to entice your child to leave the safety of a crib and join the ranks of big kid-dom, you'll want to get something they love and are excited about. Narrow down the choices for your child and then let them make the final decision. Having your child feel they've contributed to the process will greatly increase your chances of actually getting your child into the bed (and loving it).
Sleep Help
Toddlers need about 14 hours of sleep per day. This is usually divided between 11 hours of nighttime sleep and 3 hours of naps (one or two naps per day). Here are a few tips to make the sleep come easier: - Try not to overheat the room.
- Keep to a schedule at bed time.
- Be consistent.
- The use of a blanket or stuffed animal may help to comfort a child to sleep.
For more sleep information, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website.
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Sheets - Order a second set for potty-training accidents.
- Consider different weights for winter and summer.
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Comforter/Quilt/Duvet - Duvets with a removable cover are easy to launder.
- Look for natural fibers in duvet and comforter.
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Pillow |
Whole Set - Sets often are less expensive than purchasing the pieces individually.
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Stuffed Animals - Make excellent sleep companions.
- Much easier to care for than a real pet.
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Toddler Beds - Pick from a variety of themes or beds shaped like objects
- Let your toddler help you choose in order to ensure he's comfortable and excited about his new bed
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Convertible Cribs - These are great if you're child has a special attachment to his/her crib
- You will save money by not having to buy a toddler bed
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Nursery Furniture - Dressers and a changing table are essential in every nursery
- Make sure to baby proof everything
- Don't choose furniture that can be easily knocked down if your toddler is able to climb
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Childproof Gates - Prevent children from wandering into dangerous territory
- Choose ones that will fit most doorways and that aren't too much of a hasslespellerr to open
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Toys and Games - Look out for toys with tiny pieces that can easily be swallowed
- Be sure to keep some disinfectant wipes handy to keep those toys germ free
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Additional Resources- Kids Decor -- Ideas for creating unique kids rooms.
- ivillage -- Offers an inspirational gallery of finished kid's rooms.
- Toddler Beds -- An online source for nearly everything toddler.
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