TODDLER BEDS

When do you move your toddler from crib to a toddler bed?

Many parents will say keep your child in the crib for as long as possible! But at some point you'll know it's time. A good rule of thumb is that if your child can climb out of the crib and is big enough for a bed, it's time to make the switch. Some kids can climb out at an early age and if you don't want to move to the toddler bed yet, you can get a screen canopy to put over the crib to prevent your child from getting hurt by trying to climb out.

What and Where to buy?
Here are a few different styles to chose from. You can get the wood, or plastic depending on your taste or budget.

	Delta - San Tropez Toddler Bed, in Cherry Price: $79 Shipping: Free with Site-to-store Source: Walmart Notes: Comes in white also
	Delta Dora the Explorer Toddler Bed, Model No. BB-86615DO Price: $50 Shipping: Free with Site-to-store Source: Walmart
	Disney Pixar Cars, Lightning McQueen Toddler Bed Price: $50 Shipping: Free with Site-to-store Source: Walmart
	Fire Engine Toddler Bed Price: $169 Source: Walmart
Thomas Tank Engine Toddler Bed Price: $249 Source: ToysRUs

How to make the switch?

Be sure to get your child all excited about getting a "big boy" or "big girl" bed. Make some new pillows or let her help you pick out some new bedding. This way when the time comes it will be exciting to move out of the crib!

The next question most parents have is "How do I keep my toddler in his/her new bed?!! " The answer to that is consistency. First let your child know that it is very dangerous for him/her to get out of bed at night. If your toddler has a favorite stuffed animal to sleep with, then tell her that she needs to stay in bed with her stuffed animal. Or she won't be able to sleep with the stuffed animal.

When your child comes out of the room, just walk him back telling him that it's time for bed and he needs to stay in bed. Try to do it calmly because if he gets a reaction out of you, that will just want him to do it more and more!

Just like with any other aspect of parenting, do what feels comfortable for you. But remember that it is a matter of safety for your child to stay in the bed. You will also be teaching him/her a good habit of going to bed peacefully.