We're in trouble.
I've been stalling to get the "big boy bed" because he's not potty trained yet. (There's a whole series of blogs waiting for me on that topic!) However, now that he's learned how to "escape", I'm worried for his safety. My mom always told me once they know how to climb out of the crib you should switch them to a bed so they don't hurt themselves while climbing. We've double checked his room for any hazards and keep all the outside doors dead-bolted, even during nap time.
I got some tips on the subject from Gayle Peterson, PhD. Peterson said we should congratulate and reward this developmental milestone. It's not at all how I feel about my son misbehaving, but I'll give it a try! My real concern is that he'll be wandering the house and not staying in the new bed. Peterson says you should recognize that he is a "big boy" who can now stay in his own bed. But, with this "rite of passage" comes the responsibility to remain in the bed during the night. When my daughters first stayed in their big bed, I camped out all night outside their door. Every time they got out, I told them they had to get right back in bed. After two nights, they seemed to get the rule. The truth is my son breaks all rules so I'm pretty worried that I'll never sleep again.
It seems clear, whether I like it or not, I have to move on to a big bed. Peterson suggested you give them a nightlight if necessary and play soft music to comfort them. My son is more of the "loud, drum" kind of kid so we'll see how this all works.
Something tells me there will be a few more blogs coming before he gets the hang of it - and I get any sleep.
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