Why Babies Shouldn’t Use Pillows
Your baby will not need a pillow for the first 12 months of life . Even if you would like to bed your little one softly, this would be a mistake! Pillows , cuddly toys or thick blankets are a risk for the child, which increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, for example.
In today’s post, learn why babies don’t need pillows.
Danger from pillows in the cradle
Some mothers think that pillows, cuddly toys, or thick blankets give their young children protection and security, but the truth is that they increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
Newborns are still weak and can only move gently and slowly. They are not yet able to turn themselves or to change their sleeping position and to grasp things.
They must first gradually develop their psychomotor skills, which is exactly why a pillow has no place in a child’s bed.
If the pillow covers the baby’s face for any reason, it will not be able to remove it by itself . If possible, he will try to cry to draw attention to his situation. But if it doesn’t get help, it could suffocate.
Even with larger babies, the risk is no less. You can move around better and do a variety of things. Therefore, they could endanger themselves with a pillow.
The pillow as a symbol of comfort
For adults, the sleeping pillow means comfort, because they are used to it and partly dependent on it, as it is difficult for them to fall asleep in a different sleeping position.
But it looks different with small children. A pillow can cause various complaints and in no way promotes the quality of your sleep.
A baby’s body proportions are different from those of an adult. The baby’s head is proportionally larger, but the neck is short and the muscles are still weak. The child needs a lot of practice first to acquire certain skills.
It is not yet able to hold its head on its own and needs sufficient freedom of movement in order to develop. A pillow in the cot only limits it, but does not bring it any additional comfort.
It is important that the child is in a natural position for healthy growth.
Don’t give your baby a pillow!
The cradle or cot should not contain pillows, plush toys or thick blankets. Because all of these additional elements can be a great danger to your child, especially when they are alone.
You are of course welcome to give your baby a plush toy as long as you are with him. But don’t let it sleep with it alone.
When can I give my baby a pillow to sleep on?
If your child can already hold and remove the pillow by themselves, when they can speak, and they actually feel comfortable with the pad while sleeping, then you can give them to them. However, this is not necessary and not recommended for the first 12 months.
You will see for yourself when the right time is for your child. His neck muscles need to be strengthened first and the child needs to be safe. It often happens at the age of three, but it is different for everyone.
As soon as you give your child a pillow, take good advice. It should be free of pollutants and have a head recess. We recommend a high-quality, flat, washable pillow. Don’t forget: the later your child gets a pillow, the better!
