It can be a blanket, a stuffed toy or a
silky rag. In any form, it offers your baby
comfort and security. It is a substitute you—faithful, loving and accepting.
Security comfort objects are sometimes
called loveys, blankeys or other made-up
names. Usually babies between nine and 12
months choose their loveys. Once chosen,
the lovey may be a part of the family for
years to come.
Loveys are not a sign of weakness. Instead, they help your baby learn about
being apart from you. With a lovey, your baby can control her own comfort.
It can help her find comfort anywhere, even if you aren’t there. It will help
her go to sleep when she’s tired. It will reassure her when she’s away from
you. It will comfort her when she’s scared or upset. It will help her remember the security of home when she’s in a strange place.
Think of a lovey as a symbol for you. It allows your baby to think, “I
can’t have my mommy or daddy right now. I have this instead. It
reminds me of my mommy and daddy. It helps me remember that they
love and care for me.”
This content has been provided freely by CMC. Click Healthy Start, Grow Smart—Your-Ten-Month-Old for your free download. Click GreatDad Free Ebook to download the entire Health Start, Grow Smart series.
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