From a snuggly, oh-so-cozy blanket to a doll that’s been through it all (no, seriously...through it all!), do your kids have that one thing they refuse to let go of?

Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store or sitting on the sidelines of their older brother’s soccer practice, children want to bring these items wherever they go! You can certainly remember being a little tot who was always photographed with a bear or blankie.

Matter of fact, we get pictures from our community all the time of adorable babes who just can’t put down their Angel Dear Lovie Blankies! But what’s the science behind kids’ attachment to their stuff?

In a recent study, researchers found that children picked their favorite bear or blanket over an identical duplicate. No surprise to you, right?

Kids become emotionally attached to lots of things. It could be a cuddly blanket, an ultra-plush toy, or even a random item that was found somewhere in your home. In the scientific world, these items are often referred to as transitional objects (T.O.s). They provide little ones with a sense of security, especially as they grow as toddlers and start exploring the world around them.

No matter how hard your child resists letting go of their favorite item, just know that there’s nothing to worry about...most of the time! Between the ages of two-five, most kiddos lose their need for attachment to their favorite items. But in the meantime, let’s take a look at some of the benefits and challenges of of these snuggly-soft items.

Benefits

• Attachment items such as blankies and Lovies allow your child to feel safe and secure in their surroundings, often pushing them toward new, “scary” things they might not do otherwise.
• A bond with an attachment item can be a reminder of love and security!
• Blankies and Lovies make the transition into new settings easier.
• One study found that children with strong bonds to these objects have a stronger attachment to a parent. They’re happier than those without one.
• Blankies and Lovies can help children cope with situations that cause stress or anxiety.
• Blankies and Lovies are tools that can boost a child’s confidence level!

Challenges

• If your child only wants to snuggle their favorite item rather than play with other kids or engage in outdoor activities, you might want to consider checking to see if there are underlying issues such as stress at home.
• An attachment item that sticks around for a little too long might make the transition into kindergarten more challenging—when the child has to leave the beloved bear or blankie at home.
• Older kids and teens who need attachment items may have more problems handling their mental health. An older child that needs to sleep with their baby blanket may have some unresolved challenges that need to be addressed.

No matter if we’re 1 or 101, we’re all humans, and we crave comfort! Enjoy every minute of your child’s growing years, and be sure to keep their favorite blankie or doll in a treasured keepsake box, so you never forget the memories.

To ensure your kiddo has the squishiest, softest, most adorable blankie around, be sure to check out our Angel Dear Lovie collection! Angel Dear Lovie Blankies have been baby and toddler (....and mama!) favorites for years, bringing comfort and security to little ones when they need it most. At 13x13, they're big enough to love and snuggle, yet small enough to easily pack and bring along, anytime, anywhere.

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