Your child is growing fast in every way! They’re getting taller and heavier. They’re more curious and more capable, and they’re gaining independence.
You may feel they’re ready to transition from a toddler bed to a twin bed. Or your child may tell you they’re done with their “big kid” bed and want to move to a “bigger kid” bed!
In this article, we’ll explore how to know when your little one is ready for a twin bed. We’ll also offer some tips to help make the transition smooth.
Key Takeaways
How does a twin bed differ from a toddler bed?
The only real difference between a toddler bed and a twin bed is size. A toddler bed uses a crib-sized mattress (about 28 inches by 52 inches), and a twin bed uses a twin-sized mattress (about 38 inches by 75 inches.)
Another way to think about the differences is that a toddler bed is an interim step between a crib and a twin. It’s got characteristics of both: it’s the same size as a crib but offers the same freedom as a twin bed.
A twin bed is a destination, while a toddler bed is part of the path!
When to transition from a toddler bed to a twin bed
Kids can move from a toddler bed into a twin bed as early as 18 months old, although that’s rare. Most kids typically transition between the ages of three and five years old.
But how do you know if your toddler’s ready to make the switch? Look for some of these signs:
- They’re nearing the weight limit for a toddler bed. (Maximum weight is 50 pounds.)
- They are getting too tall for their toddler bed. (Maximum height is 35 inches.)
- You notice they’re uncomfortable in their toddler bed.
- They consistently climb in and out of their toddler bed.
- They ask for a new bed.
- You need the bed for another child!
Safety suggestions
Even though your child is ready to move into a bigger bed, you might still want to consider some safety precautions.
Add guardrails.
Most toddler beds have guardrails to prevent your child from falling in the middle of the night. While twin beds don’t usually come with them, it might be helpful to install some anyway.
In fact, some safety experts recommend using guardrails for kids under 5 to help prevent them from falling while they sleep.
Choose a bed that’s low to the ground.
A bed with a platform a few inches off the ground is a great choice. It can prevent injuries, and being close to the ground can make your little one feel cozy. They can also climb in and out of the bed independently (which is mostly a good thing!).
Ditch the bed frame.
Another option is to put a twin-sized mattress on the floor. An ultimate safety move! Once your child is comfortable in the bigger bed, you can add a frame.
At Newton, we offer a variety of GREENGUARD Gold Certified twin mattresses that exceed the highest industry emissions safety standards.
6 Tips for helping your toddler make the transition
Making the change from a toddler bed to a twin bed is exciting for your child, but it might be a little uncomfortable, too. Adjusting to anything new takes time. Here are some tips for a smoother transition.
1) Bring your child into the process.
Let your child have agency in some of the choices you need to make as you switch them from a toddler bed to a twin bed. If they feel like their ideas and opinions are being considered, they’ll feel more secure.
You could try letting them choose the sheets for the new bed. Or maybe spend time rearranging their furniture together so their room feels brand new.
2) Keep your bedtime routine consistent.
Try to stick to your bedtime routine. Even a desired transition can feel disruptive. It creates a different set of sensory inputs that need to become familiar. But if you keep a reliable routine through this change, it will be easier for your child to fall asleep.
3) Put the twin bed in the same place.
If the space is big enough, try to place your child’s new bed where the old one was. If they’ve got a favorite blanket or “lovey,” you can transfer it for consistency and comfort.
4) Spend time in the new sleep spot.
Give your child some non-sleep time to hang out on their new bed. Read books there in the middle of the day. Or maybe your little one can make-believe their stuffies are taking a nap.
If the new bed is familiar, falling asleep in it at night will be easier.
5) Keep the space clutter-free.
Your toddler may occasionally wake up in the middle of the night (at least at first) and make their way to your bedroom. Keep toys and books out of their walking path. Tripping on something would be jarring, and it might cause them to take longer to fall back asleep.
6) Separate big transitions.
Big changes (like moving, starting day care, and potty training) can disrupt a child’s sleep. So, moving them into a new bed at the same time may cause some extra nighttime struggles. Try to introduce the bed when the rest of life is relatively calm.
That said, if you need the toddler bed for a younger child, you may not be able to wait. If it’s possible, stagger the transitions. If it’s not, be patient with both yourself and your kids. You might have to weather a longer disruption.
Your baby’s growing up!
Your big kid is turning into a bigger kid! And transitioning into a twin bed is an exciting part of that change. It’s tough to know when to do it, but you and your child will find the just-right time together.
When you do make the switch, be sure you have a mattress that fits the bed snugly, like the Newton Kids’ Twin Mattress. If you need a protective layer on top, try the Newton Waterproof Organic Mattress Pad.
Soon your not-so-little one will be sleeping like a pro!
Frequently asked questions
Are sleep regressions common when moving a child from one bed to another?
It’s very common for kids to experience some sort of regression or rough patch when they transition from one bed to another.
They might have trouble falling asleep. This is understandable. Even if they’re in the same room as they were before, their bed feels different. They may also be lower to the ground than they were before, so their visual perspective is different, too.
Make sure the variables you can control are just as your child likes them. The temperature of the room, the amount of light, and the sounds (or the quiet) can calm your little one as they fall asleep.
You might also consider lying down with them for a bit, until they’re settled or even asleep.
It isn’t uncommon for kids to wake up in the middle of the night when they’ve switched beds. If your child calls for you, see if you can keep them in their bed. Try talking together, reading a story, or listening to music.
This kind of transition challenge typically lasts about two to three weeks, but it’s normal if your child’s timeline is longer or shorter.
2) What are some signs my child is not ready for a twin bed?
If your child is content in their current bed and their weight and height still permit it, there’s no need to transition to a bigger bed. You’ll have a much easier time making the switch when your little one expresses curiosity and excitement about it.
If you’ve already made the transition, and your child is afraid of going to bed, don’t hesitate to revert to their old bed. You can try the new one at a later date.
3) Can my child go straight from a crib to a twin bed?
Yes, some parents decide to skip the toddler bed and move their kid straight into a twin bed. This is often a pragmatic decision. They may not own a toddler bed and don’t want to incur the expense for a short-term bed.
As long as your child is comfortable and safe, it’s a great alternative.
