It is difficult to predict this early on, but there is a good chance that you will need a second crib. A 17-month-old may still not be ready to give up his crib and forcing him to do so, in order to have it for the baby, will create anxiety for him and probably a great deal of resentment toward the baby.

It is very important to have at least a couple of months between taking your older child out of the crib and putting the new baby into it – even when your child is old enough to transition. This will help him avoid feeling that you are taking his crib away and giving it to the baby. Sometimes it is even helpful to dismantle the crib once a child is ready for a bed, and then reassemble it for the baby a few weeks later. This will really help an older child feel that he is not giving anything up for the baby.

A toddler bed is not necessary as a transition. Most children will move easily to a standard-size bed, thereby freeing up the crib mattress for the baby who really needs it."

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