It’s amazing how quickly babies grow and learn new skills, isn’t it? One moment, they’re cooing and gazing into your eyes, and the next, they’re plotting their great crib escape. So, what do you do when your baby starts climbing out of the crib? If you think about a toddler bed, stop briefly; it might not be time yet.
Children as young as 12 to 24 months who start climbing out of the crib are usually not ready for a toddler bed yet! At this age, the temptation to get out of bed and play is strong, making it hard for them to follow bedtime rules.
That’s why it’s best to delay the transition as long as possible, ideally until they’re closer to three years old. By then, children are better at understanding and following rules like staying in bed until morning.
I understand that your baby climbing out of the crib can be stressful, and you may feel pressured to switch to a toddler bed prematurely. However, before making that decision, there are strategies you can try to keep your little one safely in the crib for a bit longer.
When do Babies Start Climbing Out Of the Crib?
I remember when my own little one first tried to climb out of her crib. It was during one of those quiet moments when I thought she was napping peacefully, but instead, she was busy figuring out how to get over the rails!
According to Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a pediatric sleep consultant, babies usually start climbing out of cribs between 18 to 24 months as they gain strength and coordination.
But did you know you can prevent climbing out of the crib before it actually happens? If you observe your baby in the crib, you may notice the typical signs indicating your baby might soon be on the move. Paying attention to your baby’s behavior can help you prepare and make any necessary safety adjustments before they try to escape from the crib.
Behaviors in the Crib that Show Your Baby May Soon Try to Escape:
- Standing and Pulling Up: When your baby starts to pull themselves up to stand using the crib rails, they may soon try to climb out.
- Bouncing and Jumping: If your baby bounces or jumps while standing in the crib, especially if they lean on the rails, it could indicate they’re preparing to climb out.
- Reaching Over the Rail: Your baby starts reaching over the crib rail, possibly trying to grab objects outside the crib, which could lead to them lifting a leg over the rail.
- Using Objects to Climb: If your baby starts stacking toys, blankets, or pillows inside the crib to create steps, they are likely getting ready to escape.
- Previous Attempts: If you’ve noticed your baby trying to lift a leg over the crib rail or pulling themselves up higher than usual, these are clear signs they may soon attempt to climb out.
- Restlessness: If your baby seems more restless during sleep time and moves around the crib more than usual, they might be considering ways to get out.
Overall Behaviors that Indicate Your Baby Has Enough Strength and Mobility to Escape:
- Increased Mobility: Your baby is crawling or walking confidently, which comes with the curiosity and desire to explore beyond the crib.
- Height and Growth: After a growth spurt, the crib rails may no longer seem very high, making it easier for your baby to climb out.
- Verbal Communication: Babies old enough to talk might express a desire to get out of the crib, using words like “out” or “down.”
Preventing Escapes from Crib
Before transitioning to a toddler bed, try these techniques. They may stop your child from climbing out of their crib and help you maintain your sleep and sanity!
Strategies to Stop the Baby From Climbing Out of The Crib:
Here are some effective methods you can consider. Choose those that fit your daily routine.
1. Adjust the Crib Settings:
If you haven’t already done so, lower the crib mattress to its lowest setting. This simple adjustment can make a big difference. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents to lower the mattress as soon as the baby starts sitting up on their own. This prevents the baby from easily climbing over the crib rails.
2. Empty the Crib:
Clear the crib of any items that your little one could use to help them climb out. This includes plush toys, crib bumpers, pillows, and any other objects that could give them a leg-up. Keeping the crib bare not only reduces the risk of falls but also ensures a safer sleep environment overall.
3. Sleep Sack:
Consider dressing your baby in a sleep sack once they’re no longer swaddled. A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that keeps the baby warm and cozy while restricting their leg movements. This makes it more challenging for them to lift their legs high enough to climb out of the crib. If you haven’t already started using one, now might be the perfect time to introduce it into your routine.
4. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine:
A regular bedtime routine can do wonders in preventing your child from trying to escape the crib. If you’re using sleep training methods, continue to reinforce them. A consistent routine helps your child associate the crib with sleep rather than playtime or escape, reducing their desire to climb out.
5. Communicate with Your Child:
If your child attempts to climb out, calmly but firmly redirect them. Explain that the crib is a place for sleeping. This gentle reinforcement, paired with a soothing bedtime routine, can help your child understand that the crib is a safe and secure place to rest.
What To Do if Your Baby Climbs Out Of the Crib Anyway?
You can always adjust your approach down the road, but if your little escape artist has mastered the art of crib climbing, it’s likely time to transition to a toddler bed.
Moving to a toddler bed is not just about keeping your child safe; it’s also an important step in adapting to their growth and development. If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to child-proof your nursery and entire home. Ensuring every room is safe not only protects your child but also gives you priceless peace of mind.
Measures you can take:
- Make sure there are no small objects within reach that pose a choking hazard
- Lock drawers and cabinets
- Place baby gates at doorways or stair entries
- Secure furniture to walls
- Cover electrical outlets
- Ensure cords and window treatments are out of reach
Next Steps: Transitioning From Crib to Toddler Bed
If your crib converts to a toddler bed, start by removing the front rail, lowering the mattress, and adding a safety guardrail. You can continue using the crib mattress, which is a great way to save money. Also, check if your crib mattress is dual-sided so you can flip it. Dual-sided crib mattresses have two sides with different firmness levels: a firm side for babies and a softer, plusher side for toddlers.
If your crib doesn’t convert into a toddler bed, you’ll need to purchase a new one. When choosing a toddler bed, prioritize one that’s low to the ground and has guardrails to reduce the risk of injuries from rolling out of bed.
How do you make the transition from a crib to a toddler bed as smooth as possible?
When we transitioned our daughter to a toddler bed, we let her pick out her favorite bedding with bright colors and fun patterns. This little bit of involvement made the whole process much smoother. So, start by including your child in the process. This involvement helps build excitement for the new sleeping arrangement.
Consistency is key when transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed. It’s important to establish new bedtime rituals that are similar to the old ones. This familiarity helps reduce your child’s anxiety with the change.
Your first attempt at this transition doesn’t need to be your last. If the first few nights are tough, don’t worry too much about it. Try not to switch back to the crib, as this can send mixed messages. Stay consistent, but be flexible and comforting as your child adjusts.
Lastly, remember that every child is different, and it’s important to be patient during this transition. I really hope that you and your child find joy in this new phase. It marks an exciting milestone in your little one’s life. Embrace it with patience, consistency, and lots of love.
Disclaimer: The advice provided in this article is based on general knowledge and should not replace professional medical consultation. Always consult with a pediatrician for advice tailored to your specific situation.