Baby Lovey Types
There are many types of lovey available for your little one.
Traditional Lovey:
The traditional one, and perhaps the most popular, is the baby lovey blanket or security blanket. They come in many sizes and designs, some with animal features or colorful patterns to capture your baby's attention and provide stimulation.
Musical Lovey:
Another other type is the musical lovey. As the name suggests, these loveys come with a set of melodies that can calm and relax your baby.
Teether Lovey:
A teether lovey, on the other hand, is designed specifically to provide relief during the teething process. They usually feature textured materials that are safe for your baby to chew on.
Benefits of Using Lovey for Baby
Loveys for babies are not just toys. They also offer some really significant benefits that will last well into their childhood and aid their development.
First, when they have an object that they strongly associate with their parent(s), they will feel as if they have a piece of you with them. This will help them learn to soothe themselves when you are not cuddling them, especially if they experience separation anxiety.
You can also incorporate a lovey into their bedtime routine, using it as a cue for sleep. This will be immensely helpful in creating healthy sleeping habits.
Safe Lovies for Babies
At the end of the day, the best lovey is the one that your baby loves! One made from soft and breathable materials is usually a winner, because it's comfy to snuggle with and won't make your little one too hot.
When it comes to safety, avoid loveys with buttons, beads, ribbons, or any small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Size-wise, you don't want to give your little one a lovey that is too big for them. Keep it small and manageable. This ensures they can snuggle it comfortably and avoid the risk of suffocation.
How Can baby bond with their lovey
There's a fun, simple, and creative way to bond your baby with their lovey.
Start by putting your lovey between you and your baby every time you cuddle or feed them. If they throw or push it away, simply put it back until they become used to it.
Make sure your little one has access to the lovey all the time, whether they are in daycare, in bed (with your supervision), or on the play mat during playtime. Remove the lovey when they are going to sleep if your little one is still under 12 months old.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I introduce a baby lovey to my child?
Start by making your baby lovey smell like you. You can either hold it or wear it for at least an hour before handing it to your baby. You only need to do this once. The scent will create a feeling of security for your little one, every time they hold it. Then, keep the lovey close to your baby all the time, whether it's on a walk, during a car ride, or even during tummy time.
How many baby loveys should I have?
One lovey is great, two is good, but more than this may be too many. Having two loveys ensures your little one always has their comfort blankie in case the other one is lost, misplaced, or needs washing.
Are baby loveys safe for newborns?
Newborns, between 0-2 months old, should not be left with a baby lovey without your supervision. You can still introduce a lovey during their playtime, but only when you are watching them.
What age is appropriate for a baby to use a lovey?
You can introduce a lovey to your baby as early as six months old. But you shouldn't leave them with unsupervised with their lovey. At this age, you should only let your baby play with their lovey during playtime, not naptime or sleepy time. Once they have developed their muscles and can sleep with a blanket, they can then take their lovey with them to bed.