Somewhere between 18 months and 3 years, a nursery starts to feel too small for the person living in it. Your toddler wants to choose their own books, get their own toys and climb on everything. A few changes turn the nursery into a room that grows with them.
When to move to a toddler bed
There's no rush. Many children stay in a crib until around age 3. Common signs it's time to switch:
- They can climb out of the crib.
- They've outgrown the crib's height or size limits (check your crib's guidance).
- You're toilet training and they need to get up at night.
A low bed with a guard rail keeps any tumbles short.
Make it a room they can use themselves
A low, open toy shelf
A shelf at their height lets them choose toys and put them back. The Juniper toy shelf is 23.6 inches tall, with five open compartments and anti-tip anchors included. See our Montessori shelf guide for how to set it up.
A reading nook
A cozy corner of their own is a big deal at this age. The Hazel and Birch bookshelves each have a cushioned reading bench inside a little house frame, face-out book tiers and toy cubbies. Both must be anchored with the included anti-tip kit. Stay nearby while little ones climb in and out.
A little table
A table and chairs at their size is where drawing, puzzles and tea parties happen. The Pebble set has an 11-inch seat height. See our table size guide.
Let them help decorate
Toddlers love choosing. Offer two options for bedding or a wall color, and let them pick. Flat wall decor like the Lofty hot air balloon set adds charm without clutter. Hang it out of reach and away from the bed.
Safety checks for a mobile toddler
A toddler who can get out of bed can explore the room alone, so do a fresh safety sweep.
- Anchor every dresser, bookshelf and toy shelf to the wall.
- Cover outlets and tuck cords out of reach, including night light and lamp cords.
- Secure window blinds and keep furniture away from windows.
- Consider a door lock or gate so they can't wander at night. A door lever lock helps on lever handles, but don't use it on a door an adult might need to open in a hurry.
More in our babyproofing checklist.
Questions parents ask
When should a toddler move out of the crib?
Often around age 3, or sooner if they're climbing out. There's no benefit to rushing.
What does a toddler room need?
A safe bed, a low toy shelf, a few books within reach and a small table. Keep it simple.
How do I keep my toddler safe in their room at night?
Anchor furniture, cover outlets, secure blinds and use a gate or door lock if they wander.
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