First things first – sleep is gold, especially for us tired parents! We all want our little munchkins to feel secure and cozy during bedtime.
That’s where loveys, those adorable security blankets, come into play. They can be like a tiny hug for your baby, creating a comfy vibe for a good night’s sleep.
You’ve probably stumbled upon the whole lovey-over-the-face debate when it comes to your precious little one’s snooze time.
It’s a real head-scratcher, right? Let’s chat about it from one mom to another.
Is it safe for the baby to sleep with a lovey over their face?
It depends upon the age of the baby and the type of the lovey. A baby who is more than 1-year-old, sleeping with a lightweight, breathable, and small lovey over the face is fine.
When it’s not safe? If the baby is less than a year old, they do not have enough motor skills to push things away that are suffocating them, so it’s absolutely not safe for them.
According to AAP guidelines: “Any objects on or near the baby are not safe and not recommended until the baby is over a year old.”
Even if the baby is over a year old but the lovey is heavy, the fabric is not breathable or it has strings that can get tangled, that kind of lovey should be avoided.
I have another article that can be very helpful for you:
How To Pick A Safe Lovey For Your Baby To Sleep With?
Should you remove the lovey from the child’s face?
Absolutely, yes! If you see your baby’s face covered with lovey, gently remove it and place it in their arm (just like a hug).
How to replace a bigger lovey to a smaller and safer one?
If you think that the lovey your baby is using is too big, heavy or is not breathable, consider switching to a smaller one.
Choose a lightweight, small, and safer lovey (just like my favorite Itzy Ritzy – Itzy Lovey) and transition the child to it using the following tips.
- Gradual Introduction:
Introduce the new lovey alongside the old one, letting your child get used to it gradually.
- Positive Associations:
Associate positive experiences with the new lovey through play, activities, and storytime.
- Imprint the Scent:
If possible, let the new lovey carry the scent of the old one for familiarity.
- Use Both Lovies:
Allow your child to use both lovies during sleep times to ease the transition.
- Create a Story or Game:
Make up a story or game around the transition to engage your child’s imagination.
- Celebrate Milestones:
Celebrate small successes and praise your child for adapting to the new lovey.
- Be Patient:
Understand that the process takes time; be patient, empathetic, and supportive.
- Involve Your Child:
Let your child have a say in choosing the new lovey for a sense of ownership.
- Establish a Ritual:
Create a comforting bedtime routine involving the new lovey.
- Offer Reassurance:
Be ready to offer comfort and reassurance, acknowledging your child’s feelings during the transition.
Make sure sleep is safe:
When you’re making your baby’s sleep cozy with a lovey, it’s important to keep them safe. Here are some easy things parents can do:
Watching and Checking:
Always keep an eye on your baby when they’re sleeping, especially if they have a lovey.
Use a baby monitor to see how your baby is doing while they sleep.
Choosing the Right Lovey:
Pick a lovey that’s made just for babies and is safe for them.
Don’t use big or bulky things that might cover your baby’s nose or mouth.
Where to Put the Lovey:
Put the lovey in a spot where it won’t cover your baby’s face.
Maybe put it by their feet or on the side, so they can grab it easily.
Wait for the Right Time:
Wait until your baby can move around on their own before giving them a lovey.
That way, they can make sure it doesn’t get in their way while they sleep.
Summary:
In conclusion, ensuring a baby’s safety during sleep with a lovey involves considering their age and the lovey’s characteristics.
For babies under a year old, it’s crucial to avoid any objects near their face, following AAP guidelines.
If a lovey is used for a 1-year-old or older, opt for a lightweight, breathable, and small option to prevent any potential risks.
If a larger lovey needs replacement, do so gradually, introducing positive associations, scent imprinting, and involving the child in the process.
Always prioritize safety by watching the baby, choosing the right lovey, placing it strategically, and waiting for the right developmental time.
Remember, safety and comfort can go hand in hand for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Read more:
What To Do When Another Child Takes Your Child’s Toys? (Gentle Way)
Can I Put A Lovey In The Crib At 8 Months?
Can 1-Year-Old Sleep With A Blanket? (Safe Alternatives)
