Sleep helps babies and young children grow and develop properly. While many factors can affect how well a child sleeps, using a pillow is one option that some parents may consider. This blog post will explore if it is a safe option and how to encourage good sleeping habits for your baby.
First Things First: When Can Babies Sleep With Pillows?
The baby’s health is always a top priority for a parent, including ensuring a safe sleep environment. Unfortunately, many parents are unaware of the simple steps they can take to create a safer sleep space for their little ones.
Are pillows safe for newborns? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is best to wait until a child is a toddler or two years old before letting them use a pillow. This is because pillows might raise the danger of suffocation or strangling. Instead, experts recommend using a firm mattress and placing your baby on their back to sleep.
Does Using a Special Baby Pillow Prevent Flat Head Syndrome?
Sleeping on their backs is the best sleeping position for babies and reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), where children under the age of one die suddenly. The exact cause of SIDS is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with sleep environment and certain medical conditions.
However, sleeping on the back increases the baby’s risk of getting Flat Head Syndrome. It is a condition where the baby’s head becomes flattened due to pressure on the back of the head. Flat Head Syndrome happens when a baby sleeps on their back or when they are in a car seat, crib, or stroller for long periods.
Using a special baby pillow designed to reduce the pressure on the back of the head is one of the effective measures to reduce a baby’s risk of developing a flat head. If you are concerned about your baby developing a flat head, talk to your pediatrician if using a pillow for a newborn baby is safe and effective.
When Can a Baby Sleep With Blankets?
A baby’s first year is full of new and exciting milestones, and one of the most anticipated is finally being able to snuggle up with soft, cozy blankets. But as parents soon discover, there’s much to learn regarding a baby’s safe sleep.
Aside from a baby pillow, is a blanket safe to be used by a sleeping baby? Before introducing a blanket to a baby, experts advise waiting until they are 12 months old. This gives them time to develop the motor skills needed to move around and pull the blanket off if it gets too warm.
Additionally, you will want to ensure that the blanket is lightweight and breathable to avoid overheating and suffocation.
5 Tips to Make Your Baby Sleep Peacefully at Night
A baby spends up to 17 hours a day sleeping. But why is sleep so important for babies? For one thing, sleep helps support a baby’s brain development and contributes to a baby’s ability to learn and other brain functions. Sleep also helps boost the immune system, which is important for a baby’s ability to fight off illnesses.
Unfortunately, getting a baby to fall asleep can be a challenge. So, here are some tips to help you make your baby’s sleep safe and sound:
Set a Bedtime Routine For Your Baby
You can do a few things to help your baby fall asleep faster and easier. One of the first things you must do is establish a bedtime routine. This might include a bath, storytime, or a lullaby. Physical activities during the day and calm games in the evening are examples of a bedtime routine.
During the day, try to engage your baby in physical activity like tummy time. At night, singing your baby a lullaby or reading a story is also helpful to make them feel tired and eventually fall asleep quicker. Doing the same things each night will help your baby sleep more easily.
Make Your Baby Feel Comfortable
You may help your baby sleep safely and soundly on the bed or the crib mattress by doing a few easy things. First, ensure your baby’s crib is in a safe, clean location, free of hazards like cords or pet beds. You should also use a firm mattress and fitted sheet when placing your baby down for a nap at night.
Additionally, ensure that the temperature in the room is appropriate for your baby. To reduce overheating, consider putting your baby in light sleepwear. A cool, pleasant environment will help your baby sleep better during the night.
Use Dim Lights
Keeping the bedroom dark and quiet will signal your baby that it is time to sleep. If you have a nightlight, use it sparingly and only if you need it. You can also try using a soft lamp instead of a bright overhead light. When you are finished, make sure to dim the lights again so your baby can go back to sleep.
Additionally, ensure your movements are calm and gentle so as not to startle or disturb your baby while sleeping. Whatever you do, be careful not to make too much noise or commotion.
Consider Using a Pacifier
Many parents find that their babies sleep better when they use a pacifier. While there are many different theories about this, the most likely explanation is that sucking on a pacifier helps soothe and calm babies.
In addition, the rhythmic sucking motion can help lull babies to sleep. Some babies prefer to have the pacifier in their mouth from the moment they fall asleep, while others only like to suck on it for a short time. There is no right or wrong way to use a pacifier, so try different approaches until you find one that works for your little one.
Be Quick With Nighttime Diaper Changes
A diaper change can be one of the most dreaded parts of parenthood, but it does not have to be! There are a few simple tricks that can help make diaper changes quick and easy, so your baby can get back to snuggling as soon as possible.
A freshly changed diaper will give your baby a good night sleep. To get it done quickly and efficiently, invest in a changing pad with straps that will keep your baby securely in place. This will help you avoid any wiggles or kicks that can make the process take longer. If your baby is particularly fussy, try singing or talking to them softly while you change their diaper. They may feel more at ease and peaceful, falling asleep more quickly.
Good Night’s Sleep For Your Baby With Ashtonbee’s Baby Head Pillow
Babies need plenty of rest to grow and develop, and parents also benefit from a few hours of peace and quiet. As your baby grows, so do their sleeping needs and habits. Different pieces like pillows, blankets, and stuffed toys can ensure a safe and comfortable sleep for your little one.
Get your baby the best slumber possible with Ashtonbee’s baby pillow. We also offer the best and most affordable baby products your little one might need. Check out our collection of top-quality baby must-haves today!
