Since when is a normal pillow for a child?

Pillows for Babies – Why Shouldn't They Be Used for Newborns and Infants?

The truth is that baby pillows should not be used for newborns and infants. There is no compromise on this matter, and even the thinnest models should be avoided. This is primarily because the youngest babies do not have full control over their bodies and can bury their faces in a pillow during sleep, potentially leading to suffocation. The arguments are harsh, but the statistics in this regard are unforgiving. It turns out that as many as 25% of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) cases are recorded among children who had a pillow or a stuffed animal in their cribs.

However, there are two exceptions where small baby pillows can be used. The first involves rehabilitation purposes, such as when a baby is born with a misshapen head or develops a deformity during the first months of life. A specialized orthopedic pillow is used for this purpose, but it must be chosen in consultation with a pediatric physiotherapist. The second case where a pillow can be used is during stroller walks and car rides. A suitable, so-called "butterfly" support pillow will absorb part of the shocks and prevent sudden movements of the infant's head.

Which Pillow for a Child? Choose the Right One

When answering the question of which pillow will be suitable for a child, you should first and foremost pay attention to its size. A toddler's first pillow should be small. A size of 40x40 cm is sufficient, and it must be flat. This ensures it won't cause unnatural bending of the cervical spine, whether the child is lying on their back, stomach, or side. It is also essential to pay attention to the materials it is made of. Cotton or bamboo work best in this case. Pillows made of natural materials facilitate ventilation, prevent the toddler's head from sweating excessively, and will not irritate their delicate skin. The pillow filling is equally important. For young children, a filling made of synthetic materials proves to be a good choice. Such a pillow can be washed frequently, which prevents dust mites from accumulating and, as a result, won't trigger allergies in the toddler.

When Can a Child Safely Use a Pillow?

The generally accepted milestone for when a child can safely use a pillow is after turning 2 years old. There is also a second school of thought which states that a child can be introduced to a pillow at the moment they transition to sleeping in a standard toddler bed without rails. Regardless of when you decide to introduce one, one thing is certain – it must be properly tailored to the child's needs.