Loveys and Sleep - How to Use Them Safely and Effectively
Parents of newborns or toddlers will find that loveys make a wonderful addition to their bedtime routine.
Unfortunately, loveys can pose a risk for suffocation or SIDS if not used carefully and safely. That is why it is so important to learn how to utilize them safely and effectively!
1. Keep it in the crib
Loveys provide babies with a secure, safe and cozy sleep environment. Not only that, but they can help your little one develop an association with sleep and an attachment to you as a parent. Furthermore, Loveys reduce the need for parents to rock or hold your infant during sleep, thus decreasing parent-baby interaction during slumber time.
A Lovey (sometimes spelled Lovie) is a transitional object similar to a security blanket, though they come in various forms. Usually composed of an animal head attached to a small blanket, these items can help young children feel secure and comforted when feeling uncertain or scared in unfamiliar surroundings or while sleeping.
When introducing a Lovey to your baby, be sure it is free from potential hazards such as buttons/eyes, strings/bows or removable pieces that could be pulled apart. Avoid giving them anything with buttons/eyes, strings/bows that could present choke or suffocation risks.
Your baby should only see the Lovey during playtime and not place it in their sleep space until they reach 12 months of age. Doing so increases the risk of SIDS, making it unsafe for them to sleep with any type of item.
To introduce a Lovey to your baby, the best way to bond is through cuddling. Let them cuddle with it during nursing, feedings and other playtime. Additionally, ensure the Lovey always smells like you when sleeping; scent has an incredible power over babies - they will love having their mother's scent accompany them wherever they go!
2. Put it in your lap
Loveys are an integral part of many babies' lives, and they can also be invaluable tools when it comes to sleeping. Not only do they reduce reliance on parents for comforting a newborn, but they can also encourage good habits as they grow older.
However, not every parent knows how to safely and effectively utilize loveys for baby's sleep needs. Here are some key strategies for using your favorite comfort item safely and effectively:
1. Always ensure the Lovey you introduce for your child is secure and free of small parts that could pose choking hazards if taken apart, or long dangling strings which could suffocate them.
2. Be patient when introducing your Lovey to your baby, particularly during their first year of life. It may take several tries before they bond with one particular lovey.
3. Hold or wear the Lovey before giving it to your baby so that it smells like you, according to Brooke Nalle, a pediatric sleep consultant. "Smelling like you is an important element in developing a bond with a new object," she adds.
4. Every night before your baby goes to sleep, introduce the Lovey to them by tucking it in their arms.
5. Don't forget to say goodnight to your sweetie each night - this is an essential part of creating a calming bedtime routine for your newborn.
Once your little one has formed a strong attachment to their Lovey, they may be ready for bed and sleep with it. However, it's wise to keep the Lovey in its own crib or toddler bed until your child can independently roll over in bed.
3. Give it to them each time you put them to bed
A Lovey is a comforting object that can provide your child with security. They may also come in handy during sleep regressions or other major life transitions.
Throughout your child's first year, they will go through many transitions. This could include waking up at night, altering nap schedules or moving to a different bed. Having an object like a Lovey as a transitional object can be invaluable as it stays consistent and doesn't leave your baby's side.
Your child will feel secure and comforted knowing they have their security object close by at all times, helping them self-soothe and fall asleep on their own - an invaluable aid in improving their sleep patterns.
When starting with your child's Lovey during their first year, the best approach is to ease it into their routine gradually. Start with feedings and contact naps so that they become accustomed to having the item in their environment as well as being close to it.
Once your child is old enough to enjoy a Lovey, you can start giving it to them each night before bed. This is an effective way of creating a strong connection between them and their beloved toy so that they look forward to snuggling with it whenever possible.
Eventually, your child will become attached to their Lovey and you won't have to give them one every night anymore! As a parent, this can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding time as your little one begins to associate the Lovey with their favorite thing in the world and feels secure when sleeping knowing that their beloved companion is nearby!
4. Tuck it in their arms
Loveys don't just have to be blankets and stuffed animals; they can be anything your baby recognizes that offers comfort and security. Swaddles, rubber ducks, and articles of clothing all make excellent loveys for babies.
Once your child turns 12 months, you can begin introducing a lovey as part of their bedtime routine. This can be an excellent aid in getting them to sleep, but there are some things you should be aware of about using it safely.
Before purchasing a lovey for your baby, be sure it has soft fabric with few or no plastic parts and vibrant colors. Most importantly, ensure the toy is secure for them to sleep with at night.
Second, look for a lovey that is easy to hold and not too big or small for your baby to hold. Additionally, ensure the toy is washable so you can quickly clean it after each use.
Third, select a lovey that smells just like you and your baby. This will help foster an even closer bond, making sure that they feel secure in their cozy companion.
Fourth, give your baby plenty of chances to play with their toy throughout the day. This could include playing peek-a-boo or tickling them with it. Additionally, allowing them to snuggle with it while feeding (whether breast- or bottle feeding) can be beneficial.
Fifth, when taking an overnight trip with your baby, pack an identical copy of their lovey so they have a backup in case one gets lost. Doing this will make them feel more secure knowing there's always another backup plan in case their beloved toy disappears.
Finally, when it comes to getting a good night's sleep, be mindful of your dietary habits and how they impact energy levels. Avoid high-sugar foods and drinks as these can make you feel more fatigued over time. Instead, eat nutritious foods and drink lots of water; this will keep you hydrated and reduce fatigue levels.
5. Put it in their bed
A lovey can be an invaluable aid in getting baby to sleep, but it's essential that they be used safely and effectively so they don't become a suffocation risk.
Baby loveys are typically made of soft fabric with minimal to no plastic parts and feature vibrant platel colors and adorable animal shapes. Pediatricians and parents often recommend these for providing comfort and assurance to babies during their first months of life.
Though you may be tempted to put your child's favourite toy right in their bed, this poses a suffocation risk for young babies. Babies tend to be wiggly and it's unlikely they'll be able to escape before it affects their breathing. Furthermore, the risk of rolling onto one's face while holding the beloved toy is increased significantly - something parents should be wary of.
It is best to wait until your child is a few months old before introducing the idea of putting their favorite toy in their bed. At this stage, there is no startle reflex (Moro) and your infant can move around freely, making it easy for them to locate and cuddle up with their favorite person for sleep.
Once your child has discovered that their lovey can help calm them down, it is essential to continue providing it throughout both daytime and nighttime. Doing this helps build their attachment to you as well as teach them self-soothing techniques - which could be instrumental in getting a restful night's sleep.
If you're uncertain when it's best to introduce a lovey to your child, speak to your pediatrician. Most experts suggest starting this activity when the infant is 4 to 6 months old; after which you can begin letting them play and snuggle with it during daytime to develop their attachment, as recommended by Baby Sleep Site.