Ensuring a child's sleep quality is essential for their healthy growth and development. selection Mattress It plays an important role in this process, directly affecting comfort and posture during sleep. According to a study conducted by National Sleep FoundationA North American foundation specializing in sleep health identifies five different age groups with specific sleep needs:
- Newborn babies (0 to 3 months) need 14 to 17 hours of sleep;
- Babies (4 to 11 months) need 12 to 15 hours of sleep;
- Babies (1 to 2 years old) need 11 to 14 hours of sleep;
- Preschoolers (ages 3 to 5) need 10 to 13 hours of sleep;
- School-aged children (ages 6 to 13) need 9 to 11 hours of sleep.
Quality sleep is essential during childhood, as the body continues to grow. The mattress should be able to provide adequate support for the baby's spine and promote a comfortable, distraction-free environment. According to Larissa Renata, PhD in sleep health and consultant at FA Colchões, it is necessary to analyze the child's body type in advance when choosing a mattress, because insufficient density and firmness can compromise posture in the long term.
“Mattress with the right density for every age group helps prevent posture problems and ensures that the child gets enough rest, which positively affects growth,” says the expert. Choosing a mattress for your child should be done carefully to ensure the best support.
A mattress for every age group
Another important factor when choosing a children's mattress is its density. Babies and toddlers need D18 density mattresses that provide the firm support their growing spines need. Children under 8 years old can now use density D20 or D23 mattresses depending on their weight. “Choosing the appropriate density avoids future postural problems and provides the necessary restful sleep at this developmental stage”, explains the expert.
For older children weighing more than 50 kg, a D26 or D28 density mattress is recommended. From this age, depending on the level of bone maturity of the child, parents can consider spring mattresses that offer more durability and comfort. “Each stage requires a mattress that follows the changes in the body, ensuring that the baby sleeps in a position conducive to healthy development,” she adds.
Pay attention to the quality of the mattress
In addition to the density, the quality of the material used in the mattress is very important for the health of children. Anti-allergenic mattresses, well ventilated and certified by INMETRO are highly recommended. “Mattress with quality certificates such as INMETRO and Abicol, the product is safe and free of harmful substances, reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems”, highlights Larissa.
The expert warns of the need to check the waterproofness of the mattress, especially for children, to facilitate cleaning and ensure a peaceful and safe night's sleep. Changing the mattress regularly, respecting its useful life, is an important practice to ensure the continued comfort of the child.
Choose the right size mattress
Choosing a mattress that fits the crib or bed properly is another essential aspect to avoid accidents while sleeping. Mattresses that are too big or too small can create dangerous spots where a child can become trapped or injured. “The mattress should fit snugly over the furniture, leaving no gaps. This guarantees safety and peace of mind for both the child and the parent,” explains the doctor.
The expert also points out that mattresses for babies and children should be replaced as they grow. “As the baby grows, check that the mattress still meets their support and comfort needs, preventing them from sleeping on an unsuitable mattress,” she says.
The pillow is also important
Choosing the best pillow for a baby requires extra attention from parents, because in the first months of life, using a pillow is not recommended. During this time, the baby's spine and neck should be stabilized, as muscle strength is still developing. “During the first months, the baby should sleep without a pillow, ensuring that their spine and neck are aligned. This prevents discomfort and posture problems in the long run”, says Larissa.
As the baby develops and begins to gain more strength in the neck and shoulders, the use of a pillow can be introduced. Ideally, the model should be suitable for the child's stage of development, firm enough to prevent the head from sinking, but at the same time comfortable. “When the child already has more control over his movements, a specific pillow, small and anatomical, can be considered to ensure proper neck support and provide more comfort during sleep,” he concludes.
