The simple answer is yes, for many babies they are very useful indeed. Comfort blankets and toys are known as transitional objects and as the name suggests, can be very useful in helping babies and toddler make the transition from awake to asleep. Because a comforter helps a child to feel safe, calm and happy, its use should not be discouraged, no matter how grubby and worn it looks. If your child has a comfort object it is a healthy sign that they are growing up and learning how to cope with their independence.
Some parents worry that a comfort object left in the cot might be dangerous. The other worry of course is that the comforter is becoming a source of trouble, for example if your child looses it.
If the comforter gets lost or left behind somewhere it can be very distressing for a child. For this reason, if you notice that your child is forming an attachment to a particular object, you should try and get hold of another identical one. Alternate their use so that each becomes equally worn and also so that one can be washed whilst the other is being used.
Sign up to join our expert parent panel, be the first to hear about new products and get exclusive offers. Join us on Facebook and Twitter too, for all the latest chat, news and competitions. Groegg The innovative Gro-egg gently changes colour helping The Grocomforter Range Introducing our Gro comforters for babies range, Insect Shield Grobag The creators of the original Grobag and Grolight The Grolight fits easily to your normal Gromuslin If there is one essential item that Grohush The Grohush is a unique portable white Grosuit Specially designed to be used with a When it is kept within reach during the night, they can easily reach for it and soothe themself back to sleep.
Comforters can also serve as a friendly companion to accompany your child on adventures in the pram, on car trips, and at daycare.
Studies have shown that children who carry a comforter or security blanket are better able to deal with stressful situations. They also tend to be more well-adjusted as they grow older. Younger babies show a preference for objects resembling small blankets.
Developmental changes around this age lead to separation anxiety, and a comforter is the perfect tool to ensure your baby feels safe, secure and reminded of you. If you would like your baby to become attached to a particular comforter from babyhood through the their toddler years, between months is the best time to introduce your comforter. Comforters make great newborn gifts, and quality comforters are safe for your baby to hug, play and chew from birth when awake.
Children can benefit from having a baby comforter for many years, so it is never too late to introduce one into your nightly routine. Organic cotton or muslin are great choices as these are safer for baby and will naturally absorb your scent. Check to ensure that there is no loose stitching or small pieces that can come off and cause a choking hazard.
The best baby comforter will be soft, cuddly, and small enough to comfortably fit in their tiny hands. Beware of plush fibres which can be ingested or inhaled by your baby and are often synthetic. Your child will probably become very attached to their baby comforter, so you will want one that is well-made and durable.
It will inevitably get soiled, so it must also be machine washable. Kippin baby blankies are high-quality comforters that feature Kippin characters your baby is sure to love. Some children easily bond with a special blanket or baby comforter, while others need some encouragement. The first step is to integrate the comforter into your feeding routine.
Lay it across your chest and let your baby hold and cuddle it while they are relaxed in your arms. However, if your child refuses to give up their dummy at this age, the damage will not be significant until the toddler is older and the jaw is less flexible, so it is not a cause for worry even at the age of two. If you find that your baby wants to suck on the dummy frequently, consider offering it less often. Dummies are useful when trying to sooth your baby, but giving it to them when they are calm will encourage reliance.
If you find your child struggles to give up their dummy, it is worth remembering that it is not a life-long habit, and they will give it up eventually.
Expect some discomfort when first giving up the dummy, but this will pass as they get used to going to sleep without it.
If you decide to wean off the dummy when you baby is around two to three years, you can discuss this with your toddler and allow them to choose a replacement cuddle toy.
Involving them in the replacement object can assist them in the transition to being without their dummy. Use our Search to find out what you are looking for. Follow us. Sign Up to Our Newsletter Next. Collette Beck Contributor.
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