Example of comfort items.
When children start gradual entry, they can feel stress due to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is the fear of being away from a primary caregiver which in most case is the parents. This can feel awfully sad and lonely. For this reason, we encourage parents to pack soothing objects from homes such as dolls and plushies. These items can bring comfort and reduce stress and act as a transitional object: by presenting these toys to them they will start to build a connection with them and feel less lonely which gives them a sense of security. The benefits of playing with these toys enhance their social skills such as learning to communicate with each other kindly and being able to take care of another. It also teaches them about responsibility because if they were to have younger siblings they have a better understanding of how to care and nurture them.
