9 Signs Your Toddler Needs a Pillow

They are not mere tools to rest your head while sleeping, they are a source of comfort, they are the things that keep us cozy during our naps and often become the ones that soak our tears… The things we call ‘PILLOW’ can become a necessity for some. But when it comes to the comfort of our tiny tots, some common question that comes to our mind  is - Should toddlers use a pillow during their daytime naps and nighttime slumber, or when can toddler sleep with pillow? 

As sleep is one of the necessities that is important for everyone, including toddlers. Understanding the signs your toddler needs a pillow is equally important for their growing bodies. In this post, we will explore the key indicators that it’s time to introduce a pillow into your toddler’s sleep routine, ensuring they enjoy sweet dreams and proper support as they grow.

When can a toddler have a pillow?

Most pediatricians recommend introducing a pillow to a toddler's sleep environment between the ages of 18 months and 2 years. Before this, giving a pillow to your toddler can cause suffocation risks. When choosing a toddler pillow, make sure to choose a small and firm pillow specially made for toddlers to ensure their safety.

Toddler pillow size

Signs your toddler needs a pillow

1. Restless sleep

Restlessness while sleeping is one of the signs your toddler needs a pillow. In case your toddler is shifting positions frequently during slumbers, waking up multiple times, or struggling to find a comfortable spot, they might need a toddler pillow that can provide support to the neck and head.

2. Neck or shoulder pain

Another sign is your toddler feeling neck or shoulder pain after a night’s sleep. If they are rubbing their neck after waking up, it can showcase that their sleeping position was uncomfortable, and this has caused them muscle strain. You can try giving them toddler pillows designed especially for their little head and neck.

3. Sleeping with a stuffed toy

Is your toddler sleeping by resting their head on a stuffed animal, blanket or soft toy? If so, this can also be a sign your toddler needs a pillow, as with the help of other materials, toddlers are trying to create extra cushioning and support for themselves.

4. Sleeping on a parent’s pillow

If your toddler is sleeping on your pillow, it usually indicates that your toddler might recognize the comfort it provides or they are trying to imitate you. In such cases, you can try giving them toddler pillows to see if they are ready for that extra layer of comfort. Also, check for signs of any discomfort when your toddler is sleeping with a pillow.

5. Improving motor skills

With the other development with age, toddlers' motor skills are also enhanced. They start experiencing improvement in coordination and physical development. And as their skills develop, they are less likely to face risks like suffocation, making it a safer time to introduce a pillow.

6. Propping themselves up

If your child begins propping their head up with blankets or laying on the armrest of a couch, this shows that they may need some elevation while sleeping. Such behaviors suggest that they are looking for head elevation that only toddler pillows can provide.

7. Longer sleep stretches

As toddlers age, they begin to sleep for longer periods of time. During such times, they need added comfort and support that can help them to stay in one position. A pillow can help prevent them from waking up in discomfort due to improper alignment or lack of head support, ensuring a more restful sleep.

8. Sleeping on their stomach

Toddlers who prefer to sleep on their stomachs may need a thin pillow to help with spinal alignment. Without a toddler pillow, their neck could be strained from lying flat on the mattress. This can reduce discomfort and ensure better sleep posture.

9. Tired and cranky

Is your toddler tired and cranky after waking up? If so, then it is a clear sign of poor sleep quality due to discomfort. And the problem could be a lack of proper head and neck support that can cause them to toss and turn all night. Giving them a pillow can improve their sleep quality.

Best pillow for toddler

Toddler neck pillow

Purpose: For traveling

Shape: U-shaped

A toddler neck pillow is a small size pillow that can cradle the neck of toddlers. This pillow ensures that the child’s head does not tilt while sleeping in a car seat or stroller. It is important to use neck pillows only during supervised naps.

Pillow for toddler bed

Purpose: For everyday use

Size: 12 x 16 inches

This pillow for toddler beds is like a regular pillow that can provide proper head and neck support to them throughout the night. If you want a pillow for regular use, you should look for pillows with hypoallergenic materials and a washable cover.

Breathable toddler pillow

Purpose: Helps in avoiding overheating or suffocation.

Material: Breathable cotton or foam

The breathable toddler pillow is a pillow that is made with materials that allow air to circulate, which further helps in reducing the chance of suffocation.

Toddler travel pillow

Purpose: Travel pillow for long car rides

A travel pillow is a compact, portable version of a toddler pillow, designed for long car rides. This pillow is a great option for road trips as it offers extra support.

Organic toddler pillow

Purpose: Pillows made from sustainable and non-toxic materials.

Materials: Organic cotton, wool, or latex

The organic toddler pillows are hypoallergenic and eco-friendly as they are produced by sustainable measures. These pillows are made with breathable materials and provide firmness to support the head and neck of toddlers.

Summing Up!

As we end our guide, “9 Signs Your Toddler Needs a Pillow," we are now fully aware of not just the signs of a toddler needing a pillow but the right age to introduce the toddler pillows. These toddler pillows can also become a medium of both comfort and suffocation; therefore, providing them to your toddlers requires careful consideration.

So, choose wisely when getting the best toddler pillows!

Check out the toddler keepsake products at TODDLER TREASURES and treasure their memories forever…