For a toddler who is used to his/her crib, transitioning into a new “big” -sometimes scary bed- can be difficult for all involved! Here are a few tricks of the trade I have learned as well as some common remedies for excuses all children seem to come up with at night.

First, make sure that the baby is safe. Use a crib rail. I use them on toddler beds, which sometimes make it a glorified “crib.” Be sure that toys are up off the floor in case of a fall. It may also be a good idea to put some cushions on the floor in case of an accidental roll-off in the middle of the night. When I was young, I rolled off the bed almost every night so my parents put the couch cushions on the floor and woke up to me on them!

Have a routine! Routines are imperative for a better night’s sleep and easier for the child to feel stable when a bedtime routine is strictly followed. This can include: a bath, brush teeth, read scriptures, a bedtime book, soft lullaby by mom, soft lullaby music played, piggies game played, and so forth. You will still have some rough nights during this transition, but this will make it easier.

Something to replace you is next on the list. Something for them to cuddle or hold such as a soft blanket or squishy bear. If your child isn’t particularly attached to anything perhaps buy them a “big girl sleeping bear”, or something that they associate with cuddling when going to bed.

Try to avoid the bottle/sippy cup as much as possible. This hard to break the child from- trust me! It is also TERRIBLE for your child’s teeth. If you do break down and give them a sippy cup every now and then, only put water in it.

One last thought is to avoid screaming, yelling, threatening or calling names. This does not serve any purpose other than to actually make the problem worse. It is a hard and frustrating transition for the family. Your child is already insecure with this difficult transition and needs more kindness and patience while you teach your child. Stick with your plan and tell your child that you love them, but this is what is best. You may need to reassure her often. Your child will most likely throw fits. She is testing you. Don’t give in, or you will go back 3 steps in the length of time it will take to teach her.

Much of my parenting tips have been learned through trial and error as I raise my seven children. Remember: eventually your child will go to sleep!

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About The Author:  Shiloah Baker is a mother of seven children and homemaker who resides in North Carolina. She is the owner of Homemaking Cottage & Co., a website which offers homemaking related articles, books, eBooks, ideas, other homemaking related materials, and a subscription service. For more information go to: www.homemakingcottage.com or her blog at homemakingcottageblog.blogspot.com to learn how she raises seven children and runs a business at home.

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