Is It Time For A Toddler Bed?

When a baby starts to walk he/she officially becomes a toddler, that wonderful stage between infancy and childhood. It's an intense time for a child as well as parents. Toddlers don't want to be babies any more and are constantly striving for their independence. They are leaving behind their cribs, and diapers, facing new challenges and learning new skills. Most importantly, they are sleeping in a toddler bed.

Moving from the safety of sleeping in a crib to the independence of a toddler bed may take a bit of adjusting for the child and parents too. The toddler is now able to get out of bed at will anytime, and wander around the house while mom and day are asleep. The family pet can now climb up on the toddler's bed and snuggle closely with the child even if it is not allowed. Many children make the transition from crib to toddler bed easily, but some still cry for their crib and "blankie". To help with the adjustment it is recommended that the child picks out their new toddler bedding.

Parents should never be eager to put a child in a toddler bed before the child is ready. If the child has not yet outgrown the crib and still has enough room to sleep comfortably you may want to hold off making the change.

One way to make your child comfortable in the new toddler surroundings is to allow the child to help pick out the new bed and bedding. Depending on your budget, there are an outstanding number of choices for toddler furniture, from functional modern beds to hand made beds shaped as race cars, fire engines and castles. What ever your choice, you will want to include your child in the purchase even if it's only in a small way.

After you select the furniture you will need to find toddler bedding sets . You may want to take your toddler along on a shopping trip when browsing. Children will usually direct you to what catches their eye. If your child loves a certain cartoon character you may want to use it as a theme. If your toddler received a lovely quilt as a gift, you may want to plan the bedding around the colors in the quilt. Easy care sheets, cotton knits and flannel bedding will keep your toddler comfortable and cozy through out the seasons.
Check for allergy proof bedding if your child wheezes or waterproof sheets which pull the moisture away from the body if your toddler is a bed wetter.

Creating your child's "big boy" or "big girl" environment can be a fun and learning experience for parents and toddlers alike.