Ever worry about your child never letting go of their baby security blanket?

 Well, you hear lots of parents making that comment-"They won't be taking it to university with them" and yes, that's probably true. But did you know that quite a few adults still have their loveys or security items from their childhood? Over the years, I have even made up blankets for college students before they head away from home -sometimes for fun, sometimes to replace the one they've packed away

Owning a security item is normal and absolutely nothing wrong with it. While your child may seem like they won't ever leave the house without it, you can start to wean them away from their items slowly and without too much anxiety to you both. Start with baby steps - do not just set a rule and remove the object. This applies especially before starting school. That's a whole new can of worms and that is not the time to take away the one thing they cling to for unconditional support. You'll only end up upsetting your child and making them clutch that item even more.

Understanding is the key to making the transition to leaving that baby blanket at home. Realize that their attachment to it is a very strong tie and respect that. Go slowly - have them put their item in their room for small amounts of time during the day. Don't start off by taking it away at night - the night time ritual of sleeping with it will probably be the last thing to tackle, and in my opinion, not as important as the daily release.

Get them involved in doing things to distract them from the idea that their blanket is not right there. Should they start to get upset before the allotted time out of the object, take them to their room (if possible) and show them it's safe, taking a nap, etc. However, try to not let them touch or play with it - you'll just be backtracking. Be firm but again, be understanding.

It may take weeks to have them adjust to leaving the house without their companion, or it may be a quick adjustment. Do not rush it - let your child set the pace, however, be firm in your goals. There is nothing wrong with starting school and still having that security there at home waiting for them. Remember from their point of view what a huge world is out there, and that tiny piece of mind waiting for them is very important.