Surviving the Move to the Big Bed: Tips and Tricks!
This is another one that gave me the scares! My boys had been sleeping so so well for so so long. I dreaded this move. I’d tried floor beds in the past. We’d recently moved to a different country and hadn’t bought cots yet. So I thought we’d give the good old floor bed a go, instead of investing in cots. That was a bad move. Not only had we moved country, left family and friends, changed apartments, new bedroom, then I removed the cots from their lives as well. In hindsight….how silly was I? I think we managed 3 nights, before we all raced to the nearest baby store, in search of some cots, and ultimately some peace! Having twins was always going to be a challenge, but having twins racing around their room at bedtime, after previously sleeping through the night from 6+ months, was a shock! Needless to say, we were all a lot better off, with them safely tucked away again.
So, when the time came that they were climbing out (or one of them was climbing out), I was petrified. I honestly thought, we’d never sleep again. But we did, and we still do.
Yes it was different, we had to change up our routine and yes it was easier with two parents, but after a while, it was manageable by myself.
How did we do it…so ill write a few general tips below, but our journey looked something like this…We made a huge song and dance about it, they came with us to buy new sheets etc (dinosaurs obviously), we baby proofed the entire room. No toys, no electrics bar the monitor. They only had a comfy floor pillow, a rug and their books in there.
Initially, we let them explore for a few nights. It was dark, so they couldn’t get up to much. They thought it was hilarious. They’d sit and ‘read’ to each other or jump on their beds. We’d give them a few minutes to do this each night, then we’d go and lay with them until they were almost drifting off. We’d leave, and job done.
We’ve had to retrain a few times over the last year or two. A change of country, another change of house. I’d use the excuses method (google it, it’s brilliant), but it never took too long each time. And each time, we’d give them their space, made sure they were safe, and allowed them some freedom to roam if they needed to. Generally, they’d only do this, if we weren’t on schedule.
Now, we still lay with them for a few minutes (just because it’s nice), and leave before they fall asleep. Tonight, we were a little late for bed. Not a good move for one of the boys. If he’s even 5 minutes off schedule, he has his burst of bedtime energy and doesn’t fall asleep easily. He fell asleep sitting up singing to himself. But, at least he fell asleep! Sometimes, I watch him climb into his clothes basket. He’s a little strange ;) I just remove him, put him back into bed, and leave. Calm is key.
If I’m doing the bedtime routine alone, I lay with one for 2 minutes and then the other. Simple. As long as they’re not overtired by bedtime, it works!
So go for it! Don’t be scared! Enjoy the transition and good luck!
Below are some ‘generic’ top tips….
1️⃣ Timing is Key: Don’t bother making the change unless they’re ready. At first sign of a climb out, make that switch, otherwise leave them in their cots.
2️⃣ Familiarise and Decorate: Make the new bed feel cosy and inviting. Let your child be involved in selecting their new bedding, pillows, and even a favorite stuffed animal to join them. By personalising their sleep space, they'll feel more excited and comfortable about the change.
3️⃣ Bedtime Routine Reinforcement: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine to provide a sense of familiarity and security. This can include activities like reading a bedtime story, cuddling, or engaging in a calming activity to help them wind down before sleep.
4️⃣ Bedtime Routine Reinforcement: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine to provide a sense of familiarity and security. This can include activities like reading a bedtime story, cuddling, or engaging in a calming activity to help them wind down before sleep.
5️⃣ Safety First: Ensure the bedroom is safe for your child. Install bed rails or place the mattress on the floor initially to prevent falls. Childproof the room, securing any potential hazards, and ensure cords or blinds are out of reach.
6️⃣ Positive Reinforcement: Praise and celebrate your child's achievements during the transition. Acknowledge their progress, whether it's staying in bed through the night or adjusting to the new sleep environment. Encouragement goes a long way in building their confidence.
7️⃣ Consistency is Key: Be patient and consistent with the new sleep routine. It's normal for some children to test boundaries during this transition. Gently remind them of the expectations, and if they get out of bed, calmly guide them back without engaging in prolonged interaction.
Remember, every child is different, and the transition to a big bed may take time. Be patient, supportive, and understanding throughout the process. With these tips and a little extra love, your child will soon embrace their big bed and sleep peacefully through the night.
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Remember, you are not alone in this journey.