After a lot of thinking, we decided to see how James would do in a bed. Once we made that decision, we had to figure out the best way to go about that - and with all the advice out there and different options, we almost said forget it and hoped he could stay in a crib until he is 10. We ultimately decided that we would just put the full sized mattress directly on the floor. If he rolled off, he wouldn't fall too far and he can easily get off and on by himself. Then we had to really baby proof his room. Since we are renting, we cannot do a whole lot to the room... so we basically had to remove everything. We ended up stacking some board books and old infant toys that he cannot possibly get in trouble with in the corner so he can at least have something in his room if he wants.
I was prepare for a long weekend of no sleeping but it was the easiest transition he has ever made. And the way he stretches out in the full bed, I feel bad that we didn't do this sooner!
Our bedtime routine now is so much better too - getting to lay down and snuggle while reading, saying prayers and saying goodnight is a millions times better than hovering over a crib until your back hurts. I'm also not going to miss having to hoist James into the crib, he is getting way too heavy!
