Experts Claim That Toddlers Should Sleep In Crib Until The Age Of Three

Jan 03, 2019 by apost team

One of the rites of passage for a toddler is moving from a crib to a bed. The exact time it happens depend on the child and the parents. However, science is showing that timing is actually quite important for a child's sleep quality as well as that of the parents.

The study was done across toddler age groups and multiple Western countries/regions, done by Elsevier and published in February 2019, found that a child who sleeps in a crib until the age of three will likely have a better sleep pattern than toddlers who move into a bed at a younger age.

 In addition, parents who choose to keep a child in a crib until the age of three also had better sleep patterns. Published by Sleep Medicine, the study involved parents, caregivers, and children in five different countries: New Zealand, Canada, the USA, Australia, and the UK and focused on each participant's sleep patterns.

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Other studies have backed up the finding that kids who deal with sleep deprivation have a hard time doing simple tasks. They also tend to have more tantrums than normal. The current study found that moving from a crib to a bed at an older age greatly improves a child's development and sleeping habits.

A child still sleeping in a crib tends to fall asleep faster and sleep undisturbed for longer periods. This, in turn, gives their parents a better chance at getting better sleep.

The study involved 1983 people with kids between 18 months and three years of age. Before 24 months, 63% of the children used a crib. Between 24 and 30 months, that number dropped to 34%. For those between 30 and 36 months, the number was only 14%. 

Parents often move a toddler to a bed if they are expecting another baby who will need the crib. Toddlers can also start climbing out which is potentially dangerous.

The study suggests that parents need to keep their toddlers in a crib until they turn three. Why? Children see the confined space of a crib as a safe and comfortable place to be. Continuing research shows that developing healthy sleep patterns is essential for everyone at any age.

However, it's critical for small children who are still developing mentally, emotionally, and physically.

What did you think about this study? Do you agree with them? We want to know your thoughts, so be sure to let us know! 

Did you find this study as interesting as we did? Then make sure to pass it along to your friends and family with small children.

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!