Should sleep on a flat surface free of baby pillows, blankets or other soft bedding until age 1, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics' safe sleep guidelines. The only thing her crib needs is a simple fitted sheet.

Still, there’s no need to celebrate your little one’s first birthday by getting her a baby pillow. You’re better off waiting until shetransitions to atoddler bed,  which can happen between 18 months and 3 1/2 years old (though ideally as close to age 3 as possible). And it’s fine to hold out until she shows active interest in having one.

When the time does come to give your tot a baby pillow, avoid the fluffy adult-sized models in favor of a small, firm toddler pillow. And keep extra fabric out of the mix by skipping the pillowcase.