Your priority as a parent is to ensure that your little one is comfortable at all times. Although this is important, not all items that look comfortable are great for babies. Babies would experience the same comfort they often feel when being held or reassured while using a pillow. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants should sleep on their backs on a level, firm surface without any soft toys, blankets, or other items in the crib. Regardless, should infants use pillows to sleep? when can babies have a pillow? Below are things you need to know about using a pillow for your little one
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Signs your Toddler needs a Pillow
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that a baby should not be introduced to using a pillow until the baby is 12 months old to prevent the risk of suffocation and other health-related hazards. Below are signs to look out for so you can know when can a baby have a pillow.
- When your baby begins to sit up without any assistance then he or she needs a pillow. At this point, your baby would not be at risk of suffocation
- Your baby’s neck and head get more developed and stronger between the ages of 12 and 20 months. Therefore, you can begin using a pillow.
- Your baby frequently uses stuffed toys as a headrest and is interested in being placed on a pillow
Can we use Pillow for a newborn baby?
It is not advisable to use a pillow on a newborn because pillows might cause a choking hazard. The softness of a cushion can obstruct a newborn’s airways and lead to suffocation because they are unable to move their heads or change their positions if they are in an uncomfortable posture.
Can a baby sleep on Pillow supervised?
No, babies cannot sleep on a pillow supervised. Placing a baby who is less than a year on a pillow increases the danger of sudden infant death syndrome, hence it is not advised that babies sleep on them unsupervised. To ensure their safety, infants should always sleep on their backs on a firm, level surface.
Is baby sleeping on a pillow bad for the back?
It is not recommended for a baby to sleep on a pillow. A baby’s spine and neck are still growing, and placing them on a pillow might place them in an uncomfortable position that puts strain on those still-growing structures. It is important that your little one sleeps on a firm surface to prevent any health risk
Best Pillows for babies aged 12 months
1. Baby Toddler Pillow 2 Pack with Pillowcase
A more restful night’s sleep can be had with the Biloban Baby Toddler Pillow, which is incredibly soft and comfortable. The pillowcase is composed entirely of high-quality cotton. In addition, it is made with a particularly tight weave and a high thread count. In order to let the infant sleep peacefully and give their parents peace of mind, the pillowcase is smooth to the touch. This infant and toddler cushion can be used as a body pillow, back support, or nap pillow.
2. My Little Dreamy Pillow
The KeaBabies Toddler Pillow was reviewed by chiropractors and put to a test with young children to make sure it provides your child with the proper amount of spinal support. This soft, ergonomic toddler pillow helps the baby feel secure and easily transition into a deep slumber. For optimal development and growth, your developing toddler requires between 11 and 14 hours of restful sleep each night. My Little Dreamy Pillow is a safe, gentle, and natural option to promote your child’s sound sleep because it is made from organic, natural 100% cotton.
3. Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow
The little sleepy head toddler pillow is a cozy pillow is the ideal size and softness for your infant or toddler and can go wherever he or she goes! These kids’ pillows are ideal for toddler beds as well. Your toddler might not have allergies because it is 100% hypoallergenic. This toddler’s pillow is washable and retains its shape over time. You don’t need to look further because this pillow can be used for better sleep, transition, preschool, and family vacations.
Being a parent involves ensuring your little one is safe from potential hazards including suffocation. Although babies love the cozy feeling of a pillow, a lot of parents need to know when can babies have a pillow to be sure their baby is safe. Highlighted above is everything you need to know to ensure your little one is not exposed to the danger of sudden infant death syndrome.
