The safest place for your baby to sleep or nap is in a crib, cradle, or bassinet that meets current safety regulations. A crib can be used until there is a possibility that the child could climb out or when he is taller than 90 cm (35 in). A cradle is safe until your baby can push up on his hands & knees or has reached the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit. A bassinet can be used until it can roll over or has reached the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit.
Choosing a safe crib, cradle, or bassinet
- Do not use a crib made before September 1986. Also, cribs older than 10 years are more likely to have broken or missing parts, and to be missing warnings or instructions
- Cribs, cradles, and bassinets with decorative cut-outs or corner posts taller than 3 mm (0.12 in) can be dangerous and should be avoided
- The mattress should be firm and no more than 15 cm (6 in) thick. The cradle or bassinet mattress should not be more than 3.8 cm (1½ in) thick
- Make sure the crib, cradle, or bassinet bars are no more than 6 cm (23/8 in) apart.
Safe Sleep environment
- Baby’s crib should be completely empty, except for the crib’s mattress and fitted sheet
- Soft bedding, such as pillows, comforters, and bumper pads, can increase the risk of suffocation
- Make sure the sides are locked and securely in place after putting the baby in the crib
- Never place a baby to sleep on the same sleep surface as an adult or another child
- Ensure your crib, cradle or bassinet is away from windows, curtains, blind cords, lamps, electrical plugs, and extension cords
- Move the mattress down to its lowest level as soon as the baby can sit up
- Remove mobiles and toy bars when the baby begins to push up on her hands and knees.
There comes a time when you have to move your toddler to their new bed. Making the move to a toddler bed is a big one, and there are definitely some factors to keep in mind before doing so. Remember, no longer being in a crib means that your child now has easy access to his room and the house in a way he never had before. That would make any child a little curious! Before making the big move to a toddler bed, keep the following safety concerns in mind.
What You Ought to Know When Transitioning Your Child to a Toddler Bed
Avoid Sleepy-time Hazards
Sleepy (or mischievous) children can get into trouble if they try to wander around the house unsupervised at night. In order to sidestep this potential issue, try putting a bell on your child’s door so you’ll hear him if he tries to wander.
Put all Toys Away
Your child doesn't have to leave his room to get into trouble - he’s probably tempted enough as it is right in his very own space. Make sure you safely remove any toys or objects that could break or are a potential choking hazard before you put your child to sleep. Also, do a quick sweep of the floor to remove anything that could trip up your child if he does get out of bed in the dark.
Place the bed Properly
A toddler bed is much closer to the ground than a crib, but even so, it’s not a bad idea to keep the area around your child’s new bed cushioned, at least with a rug. Also, position it away from the window to avoid drafts or any dangling cords or curtains.
Make baby your roommate
Room-sharing means you sleep in the same room as your baby, put your baby in his own crib, cradle, or bassinet. Room-sharing helps protect your baby from SIDS. Room-sharing keeps your baby close without the risks of bed-sharing. Share a room, not a bed. When you are in the same room, it is easier to learn and respond to your baby’s cues. This helps keep your baby safe and builds a strong bond between you and your baby.
Once you have these safety precautions in place, it’s time to celebrate! Moving to a toddler bed is a big step, and it’s important you show your child how proud of him you are.