Joining wood with varying thickness for bed rails

[Allison]

I'm working on a twin bed for my son, and am stuck on how to join the 1x10 rail trim with the 4x4 legs. I'm following an Ana White plan (shown below). She usually has detailed instructions on how to join the pieces, but this plan is lacking. So, I'm looking for some experienced guidance!

I was thinking to use 3 pocket holes on each end to join the 1x10 to the 4x4s - but I'm not sure what length screw to use or depth setting to use. I've looked though prior posts re: joining wood with varying thickness, but I haven't come across a post with the difference being so drastic, as in my example. 

I was also looking at how to attach the side rail cleats (2x4). I was thinking to screw the cleats into the 4x4 length wise, but then to use pocket holes with the cleats on headboard and foot board. 

Another final concern is the use of the pocket screws and/or wood screws. Right now I have metal rails attached to the legs with 5/8'' lag screws. Will pocket screws and/or wood screws be enough to effectively hold the weight of the bed with a child (and an adult for story time ... and a toddler possibly jumping on the bed)? 

Thanks in advance for the tips!!

[Don Foley]

Allison,
While pocket hole joinery is easy and very usable in a number of areas, for joining bed rails to the head and foot boards I would use hardware made specifically for that task. Following the attached link will show assorted hardware pieces specifically made for beds. These also allow for easy disassembly and reassembly when moving the bed from room to room.
http://www.rockler.com/search/go?w=bed%20rail%20hardware
Hope this helps, Don

[james wilhelm]

Allison  if it were mine would set jig for rail trim or side rails at 3/4 " and use 2 " screw,s  and for the the cleats  on the head and foot sections set the jig for 1 1/2 " and use 2 1/2 " screws , should  make it strong  enough!!  You are also going to have to screw the cleats to the side rails ,head and  foot section , counter sunk to hide them or kreg screw,s if you don,t care if they are seen , hope this helps and you under stand what i am saying , JIM !!

[Allison]

Thanks so much for the suggestions!!

[james wilhelm]

Allison, you are welcome and Don is correct about the hardware and it will make it easier to take apart and move if needed , have a good day , JIM !!