A: Crib Question
I'm a rather short (about 5'3") expectant first-time mother and am wondering if I'll be alright with a crib that doesn't have a lowering rail? Will I be able to easily reach in and out as I lower the mattress to adjust for my growing baby?

I understand your concern here, since many new moms have the same issue! Just so you know, most designers today lean towards a fixed rail for added stability. giggle mommies in the same situation as you especially love the Sparrow, Classic, Sam, and Sleepi Cribs…just to name a few! These are all about 36” to 37” h and those will be the perfect height for you. Even as you lower the mattress, you won’t have an issue getting your baby in and out if you stick to cribs at this height level. All of our crib dimensions are listed under the product details tab, so be sure to check that out!

LINKS:
Sparrow Crib:
http://www.giggle.com/p/20561/Sparrow-Crib.aspx?cc=grey1&s=1&keyword=sparrow

Classic Crib:
http://www.giggle.com/p/15183/Classic-Crib.aspx?cc=NB&s=1&keyword=classic

Sam Crib:
http://www.giggle.com/p/25089/Sam-Crib---Red-Flowers.aspx?cc=walnut&s=1&keyword=sam+crib

Sleepi Crib:
http://www.giggle.com/p/22159/Sleepi-Crib.aspx?cc=WA&s=1&keyword=sleepi+crib

A: Whether you transition your daughter into a toddler bed or go straight to a twin is purely a matter of personal preference, but here are some guidelines to help you know which might be best for you:

What's great about going straight to a twin bed is the longevity, since you can use that bed for many years to come. If you choose this option, make sure you get a protective guard rail that attaches to the side, so your little girl doesn't accidentally roll off her bed. Check out our super cool Sparrow Twin Bed (http://www.giggle.com/p/20995/c/558/cl/570/Sparrow-Twin-Bed.aspx)!

So, why do new parents transition to a toddler bed? Well, toddler beds are wonderful for children who absolutely love their crib and are having a hard time with this transition. Toddler beds use a crib-size mattress so the bed isn't overwhelming for your baby. They're also very low to ground, so your daughter would be able to climb in and out herself, making her feel like a big girl. If you go with a toddler bed, you'll probably transition her into a larger bed at about 5 years. Our favorite? The ultra chic Classic Toddler Bed (http://www.giggle.com/p/15185/c/558/cl/570/Classic-Toddler-Bed.aspx).

A: You're right on track about thinking of this transition! If he hasn't already, anywhere between now and three years, your son will begin to reach his tiny foot over the railing and be able to climb out. As soon as this occurs, you should transition into a bed.

We absolutely LOVE this stylish http://www.giggle.com/p/15185/c/558/cl/570/Classic-Toddler-Bed.aspx Classic Toddler Bed as a great first bed! It has protective side rails, and is super low to the ground which makes it easy for your baby to climb in and out.

A: Anywhere between 18 months to 3 years, on average, but your little one will let you know: they'll begin to reach their tiny foot over the railing and eventually will be able to climb out of the crib. When they start climbing out, that means they're ready to graduate into the toddler bed.

A: It mostly just depends on which motion you prefer, gliding or rocking. They both provide a gentle, soothing motion for feeding and storytime, but a rocker rocks back and forth and a glider glides back and forth parallel to the ground. If space is a consideration, be aware that rockers often take up less room than gliders.