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Comfort Toys: The Secret to Better Sleep

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As a sleep expert, I can tell you that comfort toys have multiple benefits beyond just helping your child sleep. Also known as loveys, blankies, snugglies, comforters, or transition toys. They help a child feel safe and secure during those times when you can't be there and provide additional comfort during times of need.


Don't limit the use of comfort toys to the bedroom! Allowing your child to have these special items outside of the bedroom can help them settle into daycare, sleepovers at Grandma's, or provide comfort when they're feeling under the weather.


If you're looking for ways to improve your child's sleep, read on to learn about the benefits of comfort toys, tips for introducing them, and how they can help your little one get a better night's rest.

What are comfort toys and why are they important for sleep?


Comfort toys can help babies feel safe and secure, providing a source of comfort while they're trying to drift off into a nice, deep sleep. They offer a sense of security and comfort to children, providing a familiar presence at bedtime and overnight to help them go to sleep and move in between sleep cycles.


How to choose a comfort toy for your child

  1. Choose something safe: make sure the toy is made of breathable fabric, has no cords, no buttons, no sequins, or anything else that could cause your child to choke or get caught in. Follow your safe sleep guidelines.

  2. Choose a toy that your child has shown interest in during the day: Look for a toy that your child already has an attachment to, or consider giving them a new toy that they can grow to love.

  3. Choose something soft and snuggly: Choose a toy that is soft and cuddly so it feels nice on their skin.

  4. Choose something that's machine washable for easy cleaning.

Tips for introducing a comfort toy

Introducing a comfort toy may take some time, so be patient. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

  1. Hold the toy between you and the child for breast or bottle feeds

  2. Sleep with the toy yourself for a few nights so it gets your smell on it

  3. Put it in your bra for a few days before introducing

  4. Let the child play with it during the day

  5. If your child uses a dummy for comfort you can attach it to a toy to help them find it easily during the night


Attachment doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen!

Remember, attachment to a comfort toy takes time and doesn't happen overnight. However, you can help by giving your child plenty of opportunities to bond with the toy. Make sure they have it with them during the pre-sleep wind down and when you put them into the cot for all sleeps. It's also a great portable association you can use for on-the-go naps.


It is a beautiful relationship to watch grow over the years! Attachment to comfort toys peaks around 18 months - 3.5 years. There is no need to worry about taking this away. From about 4 years onwards you will notice your child becomes less and less dependent on their special toy.

IN CONCLUSION

Comfort toys not only help children sleep better, but also provide a sense of comfort and security in new and unfamiliar situations. So why not introduce a comfort toy to your little one and watch their relationship with it blossom?


Alana x


Baby Sleep Consultant - Healthy Sleep Habits Start Here





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