When do I give my baby/toddler a pillow for the first time?
Pediatricians recommend starting your child on a pillow around 18 months. Of course, there may be some exceptions to this rule, but it is best to consult your own pediatrician in unique cases.
The point of a pillow of course is comfort and support. There are some children who may begin needing some nighttime lift as early as 14 months and then others who won't feel comfortable with lift until later. Your child can be the best indicator of their need so be flexible. Many will let you know they are ready for a pillow by sleeping on their arm or a blanket.
Also know that a pillow may not be necessary all night in the beginning. Some parents have asked us if there is a problem because their child may be off the pillow by morning, wondering if the pillow is too high or too small. It is quite normal for children not to need it all night.
Given the rate at which children grow, it is important to provide pillows that match this growth. Just as you wouldn’t dream of letting your child wear shoes too small or too big, the correct size pillow is equally essential. After all, most young children will spend at least 10 hours out of 24 sleeping, a time during which they are also growing, so making sure they have the correct head and neck support is paramount!
- Baby's First Pillow (10x16) 18 - 24 Months
- Toddler Pillow (13x18) 2 - 4 Years
- Child Pillow (16x22) 4 - 6 Years
- Youth Pillow (18x24) 6 - 12 Years
- Standard Pillow (20x26) 12 & Up
- Queen Pillow (20x30) 12 & Up