Transitioning from Nursery to Toddler Room | Must-Do's

The initial years with your baby pass by in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, you find yourself with an active and curious toddler on your hands! One of the most significant milestones during this period is transitioning your baby's nursery into a "big kid" toddler room. But how do you know when the time is right? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Most parents naturally sense when their child is ready for this change, typically between the ages of 2 and 3 1/2. It might be prudent to delay this transition as long as possible, ideally until around age 3. By this point, toddlers are better able to communicate their preferences and have some influence on the design of their "new" room. A crucial aspect of this room transition involves switching from a crib to a toddler bed, granting your little one more freedom and mobility. Waiting until at least age 3 allows parents to feel more comfortable with this significant shift in sleeping arrangements.

When is the right time to transition from nursery to toddler room?

If you're unsure whether your toddler is ready for a room transformation, there are some clear signs to watch for. It might be time to transition if your toddler is no longer content in their crib. It's definitely time if they've started climbing out of it! Additionally, if your toddler has begun potty training, transitioning from the nursery to a toddler "big kid" room can help aid in that process, fostering independence and "big kid" behaviors. Finally, if your toddler is still co-sleeping in YOUR bedroom, you may be ready for the change and craving some space! As previously mentioned, parents can plan on this transition to occur around age 3.

How can parents prepare their toddler to transition from a nursery to a toddler room?

Parents may notice that while all signs indicate their toddler is developmentally ready for a room transformation, emotionally, they may resist change. If a toddler is showing the signs we mentioned earlier, such as climbing out of their crib, parents should proceed with the transition and support their toddler in embracing the change. Let's explore some strategies that can make the transition easier for a resistant toddler.

• Begin communicating the upcoming change to your little one well in advance. Prepare them and build excitement about the upcoming transformation.

• Engage in conversations with your little one about how proud you are of their milestone achievements and emphasize that they are ready for a "big kid" room. Additionally, foster independence by encouraging them to choose their outfit for the day and dress themselves. Be ready to embrace their quirky outfit choices as they assert their newfound independence.

• Involve your toddler in the transition planning process by allowing them to choose room decor and bedding. Turn it into a special "shopping date" where they feel empowered to select items that reflect their unique personality and preferences.

How can parents seamlessly transition a nursery to a toddler room?

Now that your toddler is on board (fingers crossed), it's time to kickstart the transition! To ensure success, fully commit to purging all baby items and decluttering the room, creating a space where your toddler feels completely at ease in their "new" surroundings!

• Purge, donate or store away all baby clothes, burp clothes, swaddle blankets, ect.

• Remove the diaper pail and changing station. Even if your toddler is still potty training! The goal is to eliminate diapers all together. 

• If need-be, re-organize dressers so that clothes are easily accessible to your tiny tot. Continue to allow them to select outfits and dress independently.

• If the room does not already have a bookcase- now is the time to get one! Remove, donate or store away baby books and replace with more advanced books for toddlers and pre-school aged children. 

• Safety check: Everything! Dressers should be anchored to the walls, outlets should be covered etc. 

• Select a toddler safe, toddler appropriate bed- while tempting avoid bunk beds and loft beds during this stage. 

What should parents consider when designing a toddler bedroom?

Create a room that your toddler will love to spend time in! Opt for welcoming soft colors and avoid over-cluttering the space. Stick to a neutral palette and steer clear of themes that may be quickly outgrown. Remember, toddlers' preferences can change rapidly, so what's their favorite character today might be forgotten tomorrow! Allocate zones in the room for different activities.

• Adore the toddler bed with comfy bedding, a favorite blanket and stuffed friend!
• Decorate the walls with decor selected by your little one.
• Create a reading nook, with a child size chair next to the book case.
• Create an activity space for coloring, and building.
• Add a soft carpet for play time.
• Don't overwhelm the room with a ton of accessible toys. This makes "clean up"  time easier. Every toy should have a home! Set rules for play and clean up.
• Let natural light in! 

What are the essential items to add to a toddler room? 

Designing a nursery is exciting, but many of the products filling the space are primarily focused on making the parents' journey easier and more comfortable. When it comes to selecting items for your growing toddler's space, it's crucial to prioritize their preferences and incorporate items that promote their development and independence. 

Toddler Bed:

• Many parents may have considered this in advance and opted for a convertible crib. If you have a convertible crib, the transition may be as easy as removing the front of the crib and adding a toddler rail.
• Check out the Stokke Sleepi Bed
• If your crib does not convert, you'll be on the market for a bed. Start with a toddler bed before jumping into a twin/full size ect. Add a toddler security rail, if there is not one included!
• A standard crib mattress will fit a toddler bed. However, crib mattress are designed to be firm, you may want to consider a new mattress that is a bit softer but  it is not necessary.
• Check out the Dadada Muse Toddler Bed

• Milton & Goose Cubby Bench
• Milton & Goose Cubby Bookshelf
• Ellie & Becks Co. Sunshine Rattan Book Rack

• Gathre Floor Cushion
• DockATot - Tent of Dreams
• DockATot - Present Tense Cushion
• DockATot - Ombre Play Canopy
• DockATot - Futon Royale
• Gathre Play Tent

• Piccalio Reversible Chair and Play Table Set
• Milton & Goose Crescent Table with Crescent Chair, Set of 2

• Check out the  Lorena Canals Washable Play Rug - Path of Nature, it It depicts a miniature Mediterranean forest landscape and comes with a plush horse. Pair it with the Lorena Canals Pouf - Mossy Rock
• Check out the Lorena Canals Washable Rug - Vintage Map and pair it with the Lorena Canals Pouf - World Map

• Check out our full assortment of rugs >>>here
• Check out our full pouf assortment >>>here
• Keep toys organized in fun, unique storage baskets like the Lorena Canals Basket - Fred the Frog and the Lorena Canals Basket - Giant Mushroom

• Milton & Goose Luca Play Kitchen
• Fill the kitchen with play food
• A toddler size wardrobe with dress up/ role play outfits is also a great idea!

Transitioning from Nursery to Toddler Room:

Transitioning your nursery to a toddler room should be an enjoyable experience and can also serve as a wonderful opportunity to bond with your toddler. Get them involved in the process! Waiting until they're around age 3 ensures peace of mind that your little one is ready for a toddler bed and capable of expressing their preferences, ensuring they adore their "new room." With numerous trusted brands offering beautiful and functional pieces designed specifically for toddlers, parents can rest assured their toddlers will be thrilled to sleep and play in their revamped space!

Questions?

Strolleria is dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents.

If you have more questions about Baby Carriers, feel free to email us at customercare@strolleria.com or chat with us today!