Hi sws09,
Post #2 here includes links to most of the better forum posts and topics about mattresses and children and includes more information about many options that would all be good choices for children.
[quote]We think we’ve decided on the SleepEZ Roma at $695. The foundation is ~$225 for a total of ~$925, which is a lot.
My question - are we fooling ourselves in thinking this is a good idea for a 3 yr old and will last her through high school? Should we spend less now and just assume we’ll need to buy another in 7-10 yrs?
I need some reassurance.[/quote]
A latex mattress can certainly make a good choice for a child and latex is among the most durable materials available and should certainly last long enough to take them through their school years. This also has the advantage of having two sides with different comfort choices so you can start off with the firmer side and then flip it to the softer side when and if they need additional pressure relief.
How quickly it would break down would depend on the density of the polyfoam (see this article and the guidelines it links to) but even higher quality polyfoam won’t last as long as latex.
As Ken suggested … this would also make a great choice and would also likely last her through school. 6" of latex is fine for a child and you would also have the option of adding an additional topper when and if she needed any additional pressure relief.
Phoenix