How to Know if Your Toddler Is Ready for a Pillow

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Check with your child's pediatrician.

   Your child's pediatrician will be up to date on changing safety recommendations.
   
   But more importantly, they will also know your child's heath history including any issues that may impact sleep: allergies or asthma, muscle tone and neck/head control, etc.
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   Step 2: Consider your child's age.

   Most experts recommend use of a pillow for sleeping for ages 1½
   - 2 years and up.
   
   Many leading child developmental experts agree that it's best to allow young children to sleep on a flat surface.
   
   According to CPSC.gov, "parents can safely start using pillows for children who are 1½ years old, about the same age at which parents can safely move children out of the crib and either into a toddler bed or onto a mattress on the floor."
   
   Read through current safety recommendations from organizations like The U.S.
   
   Consumer Product Safety Commission, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development , Is he/she transitioning out of crib or already sleeping in a toddler bed? Does he/she ask for a pillow or seem ready? Does he/she seem to sleep soundly or toss and turn a lot during sleep? ,
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   Step 3: Educate yourself.

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   Step 4: Decide if your child shows signs of readiness for a pillow.

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   Step 5: If your child is at least 1½ years old and your pediatrician says it's okay to introduce a pillow AND you believe your child is ready

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   Step 6: research the various options for toddler pillows that are in proportion to your child's head/neck.

Detailed Guide

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