How Do You Feel About Lovey's?

Extremely soft, cute and manageable by soft, little pudgy hands, the Lovey has become a baby’s best friend. I often receive the question should I get my baby a Lovey so they can have their own little security?

The first question I must ask is how old is your baby, if they are under one year of age I do not recommend any type of blanket, Lovey, pillows or stuffed animals inside the crib. It is vital to implement the safest and healthiest sleep practices for babies and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states for infants up to 12 months of age  “Toys and other soft bedding, including fluffy blankets, comforters, pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, and wedges should not be placed in the crib with the baby. Loose bedding, such as sheets and blankets, should not be used as these items can impair the infant’s ability to breathe if they are close to his face. Sleep clothing, such as sleepers, sleep sacks, and wearable blankets are better alternatives to blankets.” This is to help reduce the risk of SIDS and create a sleeping environment conducive to safe practices." This applies when baby is actually sleeping, therefore if they have a favorite Lovey during their active play time, this scenario is much different as they are not sleeping or resting with their Lovey. The Lovey should be avoided during actual sleep time in their crib, pack n play, swing, car seat and any other area they are resting or sleeping.

Next, if the child is over the age of one-year-old, and had a favorite Lovey or blanket they were attached to during the day, they are now at an age that the Lovey can be used while they sleep if you choose. At this age, it is sometimes harder to introduce a new item to their sleeping environment. Both my children took well to their sleep sacks and that was their sacred item from newborn stage through toddler years while they sleep. After age one I introduced a Lovey to my daughter she threw it out for weeks and I would creep back in and place in her crib. I always had an idea that I wanted her to have fun and cute Lovey, a bit selfish on part. It took her a while, but she finally hopped on board with the Lovey, but does not require it to fall asleep or stay asleep, which is a huge bonus.

I leave it up to the parents after age one, as if they want to introduce a new lovey when their child sleeps. I even waited well after age one with my daughter. My son was not given a pillow or extra blankets until two and half, when he transitioned to the toddler bed. This was a personal preference and I felt most comfortable implementing extra items in his bed until he was much older.

Go crazy, have fun find the cutest most decked out Lovey, but do not implement it into your child’s crib until after they have turned a year old and there is nothing wrong with waiting until you feel the timing is just right. 

I enjoy hearing from you, do you have a story or special Lovey reminder? Share it on Facebook, shoot me an email at kelley@serenitysleepers.com or just shout it out. Visit www.serenitysleepers.com for all the latest blogs and head over to my website to sign up for weekly emails all goodness related to families, children and everything in between!