Many toddlers have a “lovey” they can’t live without. It’s often a special stuffed animal or blanket, and families might call it something based on the toddler’s first attempt to name it. (Which is how may parents find themselves desperately searching the house for “pookie” or “bo-bo” at 1am.) 

When a child has a lovey, it is hard to downplay important it can be to them. Many children carry their loveys everywhere - including daycare or preschool. Many can’t sleep without them. Some kids don’t even want to part with their "blankie" long enough for it to be run through the wash! 

Why Are Loveys So Important?
Security objects, transitional objects, comfort items… loveys (and children’s attachment to them) have been studied a lot in scientific communities. These items can become a substitute for the sense of security a child finds in being held and rocked, and can help them face new experiences with a bit more confidence. In new social settings, these objects might help children overcome shyness. In stressful situations, they can provide comfort. 

If you work in a childcare center, staff are usually encouraged to just let the lovey follow the child. It is not hurting them developmentally, and in fact may make them feel more comfortable in these new educational settings. In fact, our Urban Infant toddler daycare nap mat actually features a small secret pocket for a toddler to tuck in their "special someone". 

Can a Child Be Too Attached? 
Most toddlers who have favorite comfort items will experience distress when it’s missing or unavailable. This kind of attachment is normal and healthy (if sometimes inconvenient for Mom and Dad). However, if a child’s need for their comfort object consistently interferes with their play, sleep, or social interactions, it might be a sign of some underlying anxiety. You can always talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.  

How Old is Too Old? 
Along with the disruption and distress caused when you can’t find “pookie” at bedtime or leave him behind at the park, some parents also worry that their little one might be getting too old to be so attached to a comfort item. Fortunately, there’s no normal age for a child to leave their lovey behind. In fact, research suggests that allowing your child to hold onto a comfort object for as long as they want might actually be beneficial. As long as your child is able to interact with others normally and take breaks from their lovey when it’s necessary, you don’t need to worry about setting a time limit on their attachment to their favorite bear. 

Adults Have Loveys Too! 
You might not be walking around the office sucking your thumb or sitting in a zoom call rubbing a blankie under your nose, but chances are you still have items around that bring you a sense of comfort and familiarity. Think about things like your wedding ring, a parent’s jacket you inherited, or your partner’s scarf that you borrow so often it just lives in your side of the closet now. These are the grown-up versions of a “pookie,” and you’d probably be pretty upset if someone decided for you that you no longer need them.