Many parents are still confused about how to use security blanket effectively.
For some infants and toddlers, having a security blanket is essential for emotional development in their early years.
It’s not just a sleeping buddy for your baby, but it could also comfort your child when they are anxious or scared.
As a parent, it’s essential to teach your baby to realize that they won’t be with you for some hours of the day, particularly during sleeping time.
Doing this will teach them how to deal with separation anxiety.
In this article, we’re going to talk all about security blankets and tips on using them.
What Is A Security Blanket?
A security blanket is an example of a transitional object that provides psychological comfort to the child who uses it.
On the other hand, transitional objects help children to transition from being dependent on their parents to be comfortable by themselves.
It helps your baby to do things alone because their blanket will be there to help them to get through difficult things.
If you’re familiar with the comic strip Peanuts, you’ll most likely notice Linus and how he is always comfortable.
He is a fictional character that always brings his blanket everywhere. This is an excellent example of how children use security blankets.
6 Tips On How To Use Security Blanket For Babies
-
Replaceable
When planning to use a blankie, it’s important to get something that is easily replaceable.
It will help if you avoid buying a limited edition from abroad. This way, you can easily buy a new one, especially if your child has become too attached to the blanket.
You could also buy a spare one beforehand to have peace of mind whenever you want to wash the blanket or in case something happened to it.
-
Made from snuggly materials
Since your child will always carry this anywhere, ensure that it is made from soft fabrics like fleece or cotton.
It’s more likely that your little one would rub the blanket on their face or even put it in their mouth.
That’s why you have to make sure that the material is safe for their delicate skin.
A security blanket must also be soft and comfortable enough so they can sleep with it and take it anywhere without any problem.
-
Create attachment
If you’re now ready to introduce the security blanket to your child, the first thing you need to do is check your little one’s age.
If he or she is between 8 to 12 months of age, you can now start incorporating security blankets in your daily routine.
Separation anxiety emerges within this age range.
They start to learn the concept of object permanence where their mommy and daddy still exist even if they don’t see them.
Start creating an attachment with the security blanket by putting it on your shoulder when carrying them or putting it in the crib at night.
-
Avoid bringing it outside
As much as possible, avoid bringing the security blanket for outdoor activities such as a stroll to the park.
As mentioned before, babies often rub this on their faces or put it in their mouth at times. Bringing it outside will be dangerous for your baby.
It’s highly possible that your kid will drop it and get the blanket dirty. The blanket could catch dirt, dust, or bugs that can cause irritation or sickness to your child.
-
Make sure it smells like mommy
Naturally, mothers are like babies’ first love. The attachment between a mother and child starts in pregnancy.
It would help if the mother slept with the security blanket or put it over the shoulders for a few hours before giving it to the child.
This way, the child can easily connect with the blanket and feel at ease since it smells like mommy.
However, if the mother is not present, any maternal or paternal figure will do.
-
Give it time
Sometimes, it may take some time for your baby to be attached to a security blanket. Give your child time to be familiar with the object and make memories with it.
Take note that the blanket should be introduced when the baby is in a happy or comfortable mood.
This way, the baby will associate the blanket in a good light.
It will quickly create an attachment with the security blanket, making it easier for the baby to get comfortable with it.
What Makes A Good Security Blanket?
When selecting a security blanket for your little one, it’s important to consider the fabric first before anything.
It should be soft and hypoallergenic since babies have more sensitive skin than adults.
It also must be washing machine-friendly. Since this blanket will always be with your baby, you must also clean it regularly to avoid sickness.
A good security blanket should also be durable enough to endure wear-and-tear because expect that your child will hold on to this for a long time.
Conclusion
When you introduce a security blanket with your baby, you’re giving them an alternative option that will comfort them.
This is important as it will help your child to deal with object permanence and separation anxiety.
It will also aid you and your little one to sleep through the night in peace.
Consult with your baby’s primary healthcare provider to know more about how to use security blanket and how they will benefit your child.