728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Sleep Issues › Back to the Crib

Back to the Crib

Transitioning from a Co-sleeping Environment Back to the Crib or Bed

By Lisa A. Goldstein

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

Pantley also says it's likely that if your child has a bedroom now that it's been used as a playroom, nap room, spare closet or TV room. But if your child has spent most of his night sleep in your bed, he won't view his room as a place to sleep. It may help to redecorate and create an inviting sleep place. Make sure the room is cozy and the bed is comfortable, she says. Soft flannel sheets can be more enticing than cotton. If your child is old enough, get her involved in the process. Allow her to help choose new bedding, new curtains, wall decorations or a new nightlight.

A toddler or older child can often find the transition easier from a bed to a bed rather than to a crib, Pantley says. "This way you can create a mini-version of the big bed to make it more familiar," she says. "This also allows a parent to lie beside the child and read and tuck him in at bedtime."

During the transition time, be sure to offer your child plenty of daytime hugs and cuddles, Pantley says. "Often co-sleeping children get very used to lots of human contact and cuddles and they may subconsciously miss it when they begin to sleep alone," she says. "You can offset this by making sure to fill your child's need for touch during the day, especially before bed (don't rush the bedtime routine) and when he first wakes up in the morning. When you use thoughtful, gentle methods and are patient about the switch, this can be a peaceful time of transition for all of you."

Transition Tips
  • Be sure about your decision.
  • Know your child.
  • Make a gradual transition.
  • Make the bedroom inviting.


Pages:  1  2  3  4  

Want to see more?

Comments

There are no comments for this article yet.Be the first to add a comment.

Post As:
Enter your comment below:
Title
Comment Text
CAPTCHA
Please note that any comments submitted become the property of Disney Family / iParenting and can be edited and posted at our discrection.