Children seem to gravitate towards security (or transitional, opens a new window) objects. How many of us had a favorite blanket, pacifier or teddy bear we couldn't part with?
Are you wondering what makes a healthy attachment to a lovey? When to transition away from it? I've pulled together a list of resources to help you make the best choices for your family.
Having comfort objects are a normal and healthy phase in child development. BabyCenter, opens a new window offers parents suggestions and guidance on introducing loveys, safety tips for very young children as well as a timeline for expected "growing out of" the attachment for a security object.
Happiest Baby, opens a new window blog (from the book, Happiest Baby on the Block) talks about the many benefits of having a lovey and what to look for when your child chooses one.
If you'd like to understand the how and why of loveys, check out Psychology Today, opens a new window's article about the science behind the attachment.
If you're ready to begin working away from your child's lovey, Bundoo, opens a new window has practical, yet gentle advice.
And if your child goes to college with their lovey? Erin Ben-Moche of The Chicago Tribune, opens a new window says that's becoming more and more normal as adult children work and go to school away from home.
My own daughter has a lovey that's a doll skirt and she calls it Pants On. This leads to awkward conversations with daycare teachers and grandparents when we have to ask, "Do you have Pants On?"
Do your children have a lovey? Tell us about it in the comments!
