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Doudou: at what age is baby supposed to part with it?
The blanket, not everywhere!
The doudou is a transitional object. It becomes, by its smell and its texture, an object of transition between the world “with Mum” and “without Mum”. Its role is therefore to reassure your son when he is separated from you, to tolerate your absences… while allowing him to take his autonomy. The blanket reminds the child of your presence and becomes a means of comfort in case of grief or fatigue. Although it is useless (even not recommended) to forbid the child to have a blanket, it is important to define your limits. For example, no blanket at the table, not in the toilet or when changing diapers …
At what age is the farewell to the blanket?
Separation usually occurs gradually and you can expect this need to go away completely around the age of 5 or 6. Your child will probably take this step when they are more confident. On the other hand, you can change your rules somewhat from the age of 3 (for example, limit outdoor travel or certain activities with the blanket). His presence will gradually be required only for bedtime! Finally, avoid threatening or wanting to punish him by removing his blanket. Being a safety object, your little one would be all the more anxious. Do not throw the blanket away either. Leave it to your child to gradually part with it. The blanket will end up being abandoned and simply become a beautiful memory that you can preserve by keeping it in the toy box!
Suzanne’s psy-tips
- Never deny your child the right to have a blanket
- Do not use the withdrawal of the blanket as a threat or punishment
- Know how to impose your limits (no blanket at the table …)
- Do not suddenly take away his blanket