The Role of a Comfort Object in Sleep Training

Sleep training is a process which can help babies and small children learn to sleep better, often including putting them down to sleep without any extra comforting or soothing. Comfort objects can play an important role in sleep training, as they can help to reduce separation anxiety in small children and can be helpful tools for creating abiding, calming bedtime routines. Although most parents are aware of comfort objects, few are familiar with the varieties which can help a child establish good sleep habits.

Comfort objects can range from stuffed animals or soft blankets to dolls, books, and other toys. While some parents worry that providing a child with a comfort object can make it more difficult to get them to sleep, studies have shown that children often find their comfort objects more comforting if they are given their own, individual items, and that being consistent with placing something recognizable in the bed is important.

Comfort objects should be safe and age-appropriate, meaning that a baby or toddler shouldn’t have a tiny toy that they could put in their mouth and choke on. Comfort objects should also be limited to only one or two per child, so that the child doesn’t become attached to a large variety of items and find it hard to choose one.

Benefits of Comfort Objects

There are numerous benefits to using a comfort object in sleep training, including decreased separation anxiety and better sleep quality. When a child is able to fall asleep quickly and easily each night, he or she is able to get a more restful sleep, which can help to improve their overall well-being.

For young children, who may be more prone to separation anxiety, their comfort object can be a source of emotional security, which can help to make them feel more secure and relaxed during a period of transition or unfamiliarity. As the child learns to associate the comfort object with their bedtime routine, they can often begin to form positive emotions towards it, making it an integral part of their bedtime routine.

Types of Comfort Objects

To fit the needs of individual children and bedrooms, parents can choose from several types of comfort objects, depending on their child’s preferences. Some common options include a special blanket or stuffed animal that can become part of the bedtime routine, a nightlight or a special toy. Some families may even use a digital ‘lullaby’ device that plays calming music to soothe the child.

In addition to comfort objects, some children may also benefit from using sleep aids like white noise machines, music boxes, special pillows and lights that can help to reduce distractions. However, parents should always make sure that only age-appropriate sleep aids are used and that any sound machines are placed out of reach of the child.

When sleep training, it’s important to make sure that all comfort objects or sleep aids are safe and age-appropriate, and that the items chosen are in line with the child’s preferences. It’s also important to remember that sleep training is an ongoing process, and that it may take some time for a comfortable routine to be established.

Building Sleep Routines with Comfort Objects

• Focus on consistency
• Introduce elements of sleep aid if needed
• Choose safe, age-appropriate comfort objects
• Place comfort objects in the bed as soon as your child gets in
• Create a calming bedtime atmosphere
• Allow your child to “own” the sleep routine

Conclusion

Comfort objects can provide emotional solace to a small child or baby during sleep training, making them feel safe and secure in their bed. When introducing any form of comfort object into the bedtime routine, it is important to remember to choose only age-appropriate items and to focus on consistency and routine for the best results. With the right approach, comfort objects can be a positive force which can help to establish good sleep habits for years to come.