When Can My Baby Sleep with a Stuffed Animal or Doll?

As your baby grows and their sleep patterns evolve, you might wonder when it’s safe to introduce a stuffed animal or doll to help them sleep. While stuffed animals can provide comfort and security, it’s important to follow safety guidelines to ensure your baby sleeps safely and soundly.

Age Recommendations for Introducing Stuffed Animals

Most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing a stuffed animal or doll into their crib. This is because babies under 12 months are at higher risk for suffocation due to the soft materials and potential for the toy to obstruct their airway.

Benefits of Introducing a Stuffed Animal or Doll

1. Emotional Comfort: Stuffed animals provide emotional security for toddlers and help them develop a sense of independence as they begin to learn how to self-soothe.
2. Sleep Routine: A favorite stuffed animal or doll can become part of your child’s sleep routine, signaling that it’s time for bed.
3. Attachment and Bonding: Having a beloved soft toy in the crib can help your child feel secure and loved, particularly during stressful times, like being away from their parents.

Safety Guidelines for Sleeping with Stuffed Animals

1. Ensure the Toy is Safe: Choose a stuffed animal or doll that is free from small parts or choking hazards. It should be soft, lightweight, and washable.
2. Avoid Overcrowding the Crib: It’s important to maintain a clutter-free sleep space. Too many toys or blankets can be a suffocation risk, so introduce only one or two items at a time.
3. Supervised Sleep: If you decide to introduce a stuffed animal, consider doing so during nap time or while you're present, allowing you to monitor your baby's reaction and ensure safety.

Stay Connected with Your Baby While They Sleep

While stuffed animals offer comfort, the need for safety doesn’t end there. You can ensure that your baby is always safe while they sleep by using a VT202 Baby Monitor.

Our VT202 Baby Monitor provides an extra layer of security by offering HD Night Vision, so you can easily keep an eye on your baby even in the dark. With a 1000ft range, you can monitor your baby’s sleep from anywhere in the house, and the two-way communication feature allows you to soothe them with your voice from another room.

The cry detection feature will alert you instantly if your baby is in distress, ensuring that you're always informed and ready to respond.

Let the introduction of a stuffed animal or doll be a positive and comforting experience for your baby, while our VT202 Baby Monitor ensures their safety every step of the way.