Fostering Independence in Toddlers: The Low Bed

I'd like to talk about fostering independence in your child from birth. An infant can slither even from birth. This is evident when the infant is placed on a blanket on the floor and 15 minutes later, they are in a different place on the blanket. Freedom of movement is especially important for infants and toddlers.  We can encourage independent movement by providing clothing that does not inhibit movement. When children are learning to crawl, climb, and move about, dresses and restrictive, tight clothing can make movement more difficult.

The Low Bed

Having a secure, safe room with a low bed for your child, enables the child to wake and get out of bed independently and get toys or books out without depending on anyone's help. When children are confined to a crib, they must get their parent's attention when they want to start their day. This is often done by crying until a parent comes in to take them out of the crib. A simple crib mattress or a single bed mattress on the floor is inexpensive, offers clear vision, and encourages independence.  A rug can be placed under the bed to ensure a gentle landing if the child rolls out of bed in their sleep. If it is winter, footed pajamas will keep the child from getting a chill, if the child should wake and get out of bed.

Safety is the most important consideration when putting your child in a low bed. Things to do for safety should include:

•             Securing dresser to wall

•             Covering electrical outlets

•             Securing lamps so that children cannot pull them down

•             Putting a secure gate up in the doorway. (Make sure the gate cannot be climbed.)  

The low bed can prevent accidents. I had a child in my class that was two years old. She slept in a crib until she climbed out one morning and fell from the crib, breaking her arm! After safety proofing her room, putting 3 shelves of toys up, and putting a secure gate in her doorway, this child did very well getting up in the morning and playing independently.

On that happy note, please be safe, encourage independence, foster your child's self-esteem, and consider using a low bed in your home.

-Ms. Maria, Butterfly Teacher