How to prevent children from climbing out of the crib

By : Asaria Setemyr.

Simply put: Children climb. If they can find something to use for a boost up, they will, and they will do their best (and usually succeed) in getting onto/over whatever obstacale is in their way.

For newborns, having the crib mattress on its highest setting, and the railing as low as you feel is safe, helps lessen the strain on parents backs and makes those middle of the night feedings and diaper changes just a little bit easier. Once the baby starts sitting up however, it is time to do a bit of preventative modifications. When the child can start sitting up by himself, it is only a matter of time before he figures out how to pull himself up. Remove mobiles, toys and bumpers from the crib, set the mattress as low as possible and keep the railing on the highest setting.

Those measures will only work for so long though. As soon as the little prince or princess can figure out how to get their foot up on the rail, the climbing has begun. Don't buy the toddler tents. That is along the same lines as placing the baby in a cage and can diminish not only their inquisitive nature, but can also hinder their eagerness to try to figure new things out. (Such as how to get out of the crib, which involves climbing, which develops the child's leg and arm muscles.)If you're worried about them falling, but not ready to move them into a toddler bed, place a plush rug, or even a gym mat right beside the crib to cushion any falls. Make sure there are no loose threads or ties on the child's pajamas to prevent choking hazards when Houdini's going over the rails.

If your child is constantly climbing out of his/her crib, it is time to start looking into toddler beds. Transition the child by first placing just the mattress on the floor so they can get used to sleeping in something that doesn't have rails along all 4 sides. Look for a toddler bed that has good side rails and is sturdy enough to withstand the tortures that a young child will do to it. Take your child with you, let them help pick out the special "Big Kid" bed. Maybe buy them a new bed set to go along with it.

A baby gate placed in the door way to the child's room can help keep Junior where he's supposed to be until he gets the hang of being a big kid. But if he's mastered the crib climb, the gate climb is next, so be prepared.

Article Source : helium.com