After I had Eben, my maternity leave literally flew by. Less than five weeks after giving birth, I found myself back at the hospital… the 12 hour grind. Leading up to my return to work, I anticipated some separation issues for myself and my baby. Fortunately, I had read a book while I was pregnant and remembered a part in it regarding the use of a security blanket for separation issues.
Excerpt from “The No-Cry Sleep Solution” by Elizabeth Pantley …
“Some babies attach themselves to a blanket or toy that becomes a “lovey.” This is a transitional object that comforts your baby in your absence. In some cases, you may be able to help your baby become attached to a lovey or
comfort object so that he has something to cuddle and help him fall asleep without your help. A “lovey” does not take
your place. Instead, it is something that your baby can use to feel safe when you are not with her.”
So, leading up to my return to work I decided to try it out. While I nursed Eben, I held a soft little security blanket to my chest, letting it absorb the scent of me, letting Eben knead it and me like a little kitten. It worked like a charm…and when my sister Laura began watching my boy while I was at work, she would give him a bottle of my milk and his blanket. He would nuzzle into the soft familiar fabric and let his eyes roll to the back of his head (just like he did when he nursed). As he grew older though, it became not only a security blanket; but a teether, a peek-a-boo toy, and his best friend…. whom he named “Baby” and went with him everywhere….including the first day of Nursery School.
The following tutorial provides you with the instructions to make a “Baby”. A quick little sew for your own little one or make it as a gift for someone special in your life who may be expecting. They’re easy enough that you can make a bunch of them so you have a spare handy.
Julia Daby is a Registered Nurse who lives happily with her husband and little boy in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. She enjoys crafts of all kinds, eating good food, reading, and being outdoors. Most important of all….she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She blogs about life, family and creativity at Adirondack Mama
