Baby Sleep Pillows For Cozy Nights

01/05/09

Like all parents you are likely worried that your child gets the necessary respite from all that play, a night of cozy sleep. Are you are one of those parents wondering whether your child is ready for a pillow? While the need for a pillow is felt by most of us adults, this is not always the case with kids. Well, if you think your toddler may be more comfortable with a baby sleep pillow, read on. This however will depend on how grown up your kid is and where he is likely to nap. The general perception about baby sleep pillows is that it is not required for a child under 2 years of age. Children below that age may even suffocate while using an inappropriately designed baby pillow. Of course, each child is different and you may want to introduce a baby sleep pillow earlier, but try to do so once your baby has moved to a bed. A pillow in a crib is an easy tool for those quick feet to climb right out of his baby cot. If you still wish to introduce a baby sleep pillow even while you are using a crib, go for one that is small and firm.

If you are offering a pillow to your child for the first time, pick baby sleep pillows made for the purpose; do not use a spare adult pillow. Most baby sleep pillows are much smaller than regular pillows. Babies have very soft heads and this needs proper support. Avoid using feather pillows since these are too pliable to be of any value and may sometimes even cause allergies in a vulnerable child. Feather pillows are also known to cause smothering as the head of the child sinks into the pillow while he is sleeping. Since most babies mostly sleep on their backs, they carry the risk of developing flat head syndrome. This is where memory foam baby sleep pillows are a god send. These specially designed baby sleep pillows are manufactured from flexible cushioning material, and provide good head support preventing the occurrence of flat head syndrome. Unlike other foam head supports, the Visco elastic head support material in these pillows does not bounce back and create pressure points. In addition, these pillows are conveniently machine washable. Most baby sleep pillows also come with sleep positioners to ensure a sound sleep since your baby stays put.

Finally, if you still feel ambiguous about the appropriate time to begin using a baby sleep pillow consult your pediatrician. You may even wait for signs from your baby that he might do better with a baby sleep pillow, such as discomfort sleeping in a flat bed.