Around six months, most babies pick something. A blanket, a corner of fabric, one particular toy. They hold it while they fall asleep, they look for it when you leave the room, and they don't accept substitutes.

That's not a habit to break. Pediatricians call it a transitional object, and it's how a baby learns to feel safe without you standing right there.

A lovey is made for that job. Thirteen inches square, light enough for a newborn to hold, dimple-dot minky on one side for little fingers and smooth minky on the other for a cheek. Fully embroidered face, so there's nothing to work loose.

Keep the crib bare for the first twelve months, following AAP guidance. Loveys are for supervised comfort and play until then.