5 Tips to Transition Your Child from Co-Sleeping

Whether you intended on your child co-sleeping with you or not, at some point you will make the decision to transition your child into their own bed. This step for myself has been somewhat of an internal tug of war. On some levels I am ready for our toddler to move into his own room and bed, however because I believe this will be our last “baby” a part of me wants to hold onto him just a bit longer. Nevertheless it is important for your child to become an independent sleeper. Here are some tips on how to transition your child from co-sleeping and into their own bed.

This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

5 Tips to Transition Your Child from Co-Sleeping:

1. Discuss it – If your child is old enough, begin to discuss the idea of them moving into their own room. Giving your child time (about a week or so) to “process” the idea with many reminders from Mom and Dad will help your child get more comfortable with the idea of sleeping in their own bed.
2. Encourage them – Encourage your child to be apart of the “moving” process. Take them to the store with you to pick out their own bed, bedding, room theme, etc. Make this transition about an exciting new adventure and include your child in the decision making process.
3. Introduce a Transitional Object – Children need to feel secure. Up until now YOU have been their “security blanket.” Introducing your child to a new blanket, doll, or plush toy specific for bedtime will help them feel more comforted at bedtime. The goal of the transitional object is to help calm your child and offer a sense of security.
4. Baby Steps – This isn’t a rip the bandage off type of process. It’s transitional and therefore requires baby steps. For the first few nights sit in your child’s room as they get comfortable with the new sleeping arrangements. Remember to encourage your child to fall asleep in their own bed, but from a distance. Every 2-3 days move your chair position closer to the door until you have eventually made your way out of the room. This process make take a week or more depending on your child’s comfortableness.
5. A Consistent Routine – Begin a bedtime routine 30 minutes prior to bedtime. This is a time for your child to wind down. Things like taking a bath, reading a bedtime story, and breathing exercises may all be helpful to your child. The most important key is to be consistent with the routine and the hour in which your child goes to bed. Because children thrive on routine, sticking closely to one that works for you and your child will help the transition process to be successful.

We took L to the store to pick out his canopy bed, Despicable Me bed sheets, and even his wall paint color. We then offered a transitional object, a minion night light that I found at Tech4Kids. Since many kids, including his older brother are uncomfortable in a dark room, offering a night light can make a child feel more secure.

The Tech4Kids Minion Night Light is made of a soft material that is plug free and portable. The night light automatically turns off after 10 minutes, offering a safe and convenient solution for parents and children.

Remember, when you are ready to transition your child from co-sleeping take baby steps and stay consistent. Soon enough your little one will be an independent sleeper, and you will be free at last! 😉

Did you co-sleep with your child? What steps worked for you when transitioning?

 

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