Here is your go-to guide for everything you need to know about floor beds and how you can determine whether it’s right for you and your little one.
What is the story behind floor beds?
Before heading into the benefits or when to start using a toddler floor bed, it’s important to understand the concept behind it. A floor bed in its most basic form is essentially a mattress placed directly on the floor without any crib bars or rails, however, many beds have now been developed with increased safety features. The ideology behind this is to create a safe sleeping environment which allows your child to move freely and promotes their independence.
In the early 1900s, Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, developed what is now coined as the Montessori educational principles. These principles stem from a deep respect for children which involves understanding and valuing the uniqueness of every child and their freedom. The floor bed is a natural development of these ideas, as it supports the child's development of independence by allowing them to get into and out of bed independently. Whilst toddler beds have seen an increase in popularity recently, many cultures around the globe used floor beds well before the 20th century.
What are the benefits of floor beds?
There are many benefits to introducing a toddler floor bed to your child, some of which are listed below:
Freedom of Movement
A floor bed enables children to move freely, developing their motor skills and coordination. Floor beds also allow them to enjoy an unobstructed view of their space, which enables them to make observations of their surroundings thus increasing their curiosity.
Self-Regulation
Whilst using a floor bed, your child will have the autonomy to determine when they are ready for sleep or need to wake up. This promotes self-regulation and a sense of responsibility for their own sleep.
Cognitive Development
By your child being able to get out of bed in the morning rather than needing to wait for you to get them up, your child is free to play or develop practical life skills like dressing themselves and aiding their cognitive development.
Additional Needs
It has been claimed that crawling and creeping as activities were positive for brain development and that children who have a diagnosis of developmental delay, hyperactivity, reading problems, and autism can be greatly helped when given unlimited opportunity on the floor to crawl and creep. By introducing a floor bed, you greatly enhance this opportunity for your child.
Bonding Time
For parents who practice breastfeeding or co-sleeping, a floor bed can be more of a convenient option. It allows for easy access during night time feeds and encourages a closer bond between you and your child. Plus, who doesn’t love snuggles at any age?
What is the appropriate age for a floor bed?
Now that you are aware of the benefits of using a floor bed, let’s think about when is the right time to start using one. We are well aware that every child is unique and there is no one size fits all answer. However, here are some general guidelines to consider for you:
Outgrowing Their Crib
If your child has outgrown their crib or is constantly trying to climb out of it, it’s time to consider the transition to a floor bed. Safety is paramount and attempting to climb out of their crib can lead to accidents.
Signs of Mobility
If your child begins to show signs of crawling or rolling over, it may be a good time to introduce them to a floor bed. This way, they can explore their mobility in a safe sleep environment whilst also developing their motor development, coordination and cognitive development.
When you feel comfortable
As previously mentioned, the Montessori educational principles are rooted in understanding and respecting the uniqueness of every child and their freedom. As a parent, you know your child best. If you feel comfortable and confident in making the switch to a floor bed, go for it. Trust your instincts.
What are the best safety guidelines for floor beds?
When beginning to use a floor bed, safety is of vital importance. Here are some essential safety considerations:
- Baby proof the room: Ensure the room where the floor bed is placed is baby proofed. Remove any hazards, secure furniture to the walls and use outlet covers to prevent accidents.
- Get the right mattress: Choose a mattress that fits securely in the bed frame to reduce the risk of suffocation. We list Stompa Toddler Mattresses to align with our different bed sizes here.
- Supervise early exploring: Whilst the floor bed promotes independence, it’s essential to supervise your child’s early exploration in the space. Potentially begin using the floor bed for the day nap to build confidence and autonomy in the space.
Why should I purchase a Roomix Toddler Floor Bed?
We have spent time not only designing our Toddler Floor Beds to look great in your space but also to enhance them with as many safety features as possible.
With our customisation, not only can you select the right size for your little one but you can also add a range of safety features to your bed to ensure it works for you and your child. Some of these features include rounded openings, added door, increased barrier heights, rounded corners whilst also being painted in natural, child-safe, protective wood wax for wear and water resistance.
Our floor beds are fully custom made for each person so that you get the perfect product, designed just for you. If there is any further customisation you wish to make to your Toddler Floor Bed then simply get in touch with us and we’d be happy to help.
Summary
Transitioning to a floor bed for your child can be a great way to promote independence, aid their development and create a safe sleep environment, rooted in decades of research. The correct time to begin this transition is not set in stone, however, generally it’s when they begin to outgrow their crib and show signs of mobility. Safety is paramount so ensure the space has been baby proofed and follow recommended sleep guidelines to ensure a secure environment for your little one.
If you’re looking to make the purchase then please check out our floor bed range here and we can offer any customisation required to make the bed work for you. If you have any further questions regarding our range then please do contact us at hello@roomixdiy.com or through our contact form.
