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Does your child cling to her blanket or teddy bear? It may be that the more she clings to it, the braver she feels.
From about six months of age children begin to step out, or crawl out, on their own. But often, this world can prove to be a little much for a youngster and they may need something to hang onto when the going gets tough. That something may be a special blanket or teddy bear. These are security objects that give kids a little comfort in the big, wide world explains psychologist Janet Quintall. "Children don't naturally feel secure. They have to develop security. As they get a little older and more independent they need to bring something into the new worlds they are exploring that will help them feel safe."
During the toddler years a child is often facing major changes like new siblings, play groups, and preschool. Security objects offer a safe haven. But what do you do if the beloved teddy or blanket goes missing? First it’s important to be honest with your child and to acknowledge their feelings over their lost blankie or teddy. This is a traumatic event for toddlers and they may still require a security object to get them through life's little bumps. This is not the time to tell them they’re too big for a blanket or teddy. Rather let them choose a replacement, if they so wish.
Finally, when it comes to security objects, as adults we may wish our children could occasionally part with their teddy bear or blanket. However, Quintall reminds us that the rule is don’t leave home without it unless your child says it’s okay. “Most children will get rid of the blanket on their own, and it is best for a parent not to push them, because this can have the reverse effect of making the child need it more.”
Adapted from The Parent Report Radio Show. Any advice or information contained herein should never be a substitute for professional and/or medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. For more information please review Terms of Service.
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