Many times we downplay the attachment that our children have to a particular toy and we hardly pay attention to this matter, since the toy that our child chooses as his companion in dreams and adventures has a very special meaning for him. Therefore, trying to throw it away or hide it so that the child can have fun and play with his other toys seriously damages his emotional health.
In psychology, this toy is known as an attachment object, a comfort object, or a transitional object. And it symbolizes for the child the attachment that he feels for his parents, providing security and relief in moments of tension or sadness and above all, it helps mitigate the effects of separation anxiety.
¿Qué rol cumple el juguete preferido en la vida de un niño?
¿What role does the favorite toy play in a child's life?
In general, the preferred toy is usually of a soft texture (many times it is a stuffed animal, a blanket or a pillow) with a very special smell for the child. Several studies have even shown that the use of this support toy, it is more present in societies in which mothers or fathers must spend less time with their children to attend to other obligations.
Y no solo eso, pues también es una forma de sensibilizar al niño. Gracias a su juguete de consuelo, el niño se siente más amoroso, responsable y atento a las necesidades de su compañía ideal. Este comportamiento ayuda a que el pequeño establezca fuertes vínculos emocionales, aprenda a manejar las emociones negativas y comprenda la importancia de su independencia.
And not only that, it is also a way to sensitize the child. Thanks to his consolation toy, the child feels more loving, responsible and attentive to the needs of his ideal company. This behavior helps the child to establish strong emotional bonds, learn to manage negative emotions and understand the importance of her independence.
Contrary to popular belief, these objects are neither a manifestation of an emotional disorder, nor do they harm the child. Rather, this favorite toy helps the child to express his emotions freely, reinforces her security and makes him feel loved when he is away from the people he loves the most.
The use of the favorite toy is fundamental for his development as it will help him to explore reality, as well as to find new paths, to develop his imagination, and to try strategies to learn, make mistakes and try again. That is why you should never try to ridicule the child, or replace the favorite toy with another, since the little one will gradually separate from him when he feels ready.