Ready to use a pillow?

[darplocho]

When is it appropriate to let a toddler start using a pillow? My 18 month old son often piles up his blanket under his head when he goes to sleep so it looks like he might be ready, but I'm still hesitant to actually leave a pillow in the crib with him. I'm afraid he might go underneath it or that it might be too soft and bunch up around his mouth and nose. ? Any suggestions?

[eniese]

We started letting our son use a pillow when he moved into his bed (around 22 months). I think by 18 months, most toddlers have the skills and awareness to move themselves if they are having trouble breathing. However, if you're not comfortable with it yet, he doesn't NEED a pillow at this age. You could also try a firm throw pillow if you want to give him something smaller. They are usually firmer than bed pillows, so the bunching would be less of an issue.

[MommaC]

The pillows they recommend for toddlers are pretty flat, so you shouldn't have to worry about the fluffy-factor. And because they're flat and not-so-fluffy, they don't get bunched up or moved around too much (in my limited experience). Check with your mommy friends and your pediatrician to see if anyone has a recommendation on a specific brand or style for toddlers. :)

[craftyashley]

Our girls bunch up a fluffy blanket. I'm hesitant to give them pillows. We're still holding on to the cribs, and I'm worried if they have a pillow they would find a means of escape! I'm not looking forward to toddler beds.

[cay8099]

If you decide to try a pillow; buy a small extra firm one. I would also suggest that you try to find a zippered pillow case instead of using a regular one.

[mtnmama1]

I went to a craft store and bought a travel pillow. It's very similar to what you'd get on an airplane. I sewed a fleece pillow cover because my kid is a night drooler. Kept the moisture off her face and got rid of her little morning cheek rash.

[luckymama2]

We got this one for my daughter when she was a little over a year old and it was wonderful she loved it!
http://www.onestepahead.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=6774&cmSource=Search
It was the perfect size so I worried less. I think adult pillows can be overbearing for small toddlers. Now she is 3 and we are passing down the "little pillow" to her 16 month old brother soon.

[darplocho]

Thanks for the suggestions. I think I'll wait a couple of months and then start him using a small, firm pillow. The zippered pillow case idea sounds great, too.

I'm also one who's not looking forward to toddler beds. The thought of my twins getting out of the their beds whenever they want...haha...I have no words and am just shaking my head. :) Also, it's just another sign that they're growing up and no longer my little little babies. :(

[MomofE]

Our dd started using one around 2. It is a small toddler pillow and we started using it when she went to a twin bed. Good luck!