Infant pillow

Parents often question when their child should begin using a baby pillow. It seems to make sense that your toddler would want one, since nearly all adults choose to use pillows. You might worry that he or she is uncomfortable at night. Before your little one starts sleeping with a baby pillow, there are some things to take into consideration.

The most important issue is that of safety. The chances of suffocation increase greatly when an infant sleeps with unnecessary objects in the crib, such as a baby pillow or soft toys. Sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS, is a concern that should be taken seriously by all parents. Older babies who can move around well and even walk are still at risk of suffocation while sleeping, because they are not as aware of their surroundings.

A baby pillow can also be a safety hazard in another way. At some point, generally between their first and second birthdays, nearly all infants try to escape from their cribs. Those who have a baby pillow quickly learn that it makes an excellent climbing device. This can lead to a dangerous fall. Therefore, you should at least wait until your child is sleeping in a toddler bed before using a baby pillow.

Pediatricians often tell their patients that an infant should not have a baby pillow until at least one and a half years of age. In light of research, some doctors are now switching to a newer recommended age of at least two years. Of course, there is no harm in waiting longer if you want to do so. There really is not an age at which it becomes necessary to give your toddler a baby pillow. This is especially true for little ones who sleep on their backs. Introducing a baby pillow when it is not needed can actually cause pain by curving the spine unnaturally.

The best plan is to give your toddler a baby pillow when one is requested, assuming he or she is over eighteen months of age and not sleeping in a crib. At this point, be sure to get a baby pillow that is created for little bodies. A baby pillow is smaller and firmer than what an adult or older child would use. Using the right kind decreases safety hazards. If your baby is sick and congested, you can place something underneath the crib mattress on one end to elevate it instead of using a baby pillow.