A Tale of Tommy and the Toddler Bed

Actually, the title is deceiving, because there really isn't much to tell about Tommy's transition from the crib to the "big boy" bed. For the most part, when I lay him on the mattress he grabs his blanket, sucks his thumb, and that's all I hear from him until the next morning.

Sometimes naps are a different story, however, as he has figured out that he can get off his bed, play in the closet, play with toys, etc. But after a few scoldings from mean Mom, he usually stays and goes to sleep.

It was a little comical the first night the bed was in his room though. Tom, who of course thinks he knows our children better than myself, thought he would get Tommy to sleep in it. I said forget it--let him get used to it first, and gradually transition him into it. (If you know Tom, you understand he doesn't know the meaning of gradual!) Tom tried about four or five times--laying Tommy down, running, and quickly closing the door. Inevitably, Tommy would be at the door as fast as Tom could close it. He would cry, Tom would open the door and say, "Get on that bed and stay there!" He even resorted to laying on the floor by Tommy for ten minutes. All was quiet, and I thought maybe he had gone to sleep. However, as soon as Tom had closed the door again, the tears turned on. Needless to say, he put Tommy in the crib and walked the hall of shame.

However, within those next 24 hours, Tommy decided it wasn't so bad after all.