Q:My child takes his comfort blanket everywhere with him,but he's starting nursery soon.Is it time to wean him off it?

A:Comforters,such as blanket or special toy,are useful tool for babies and toddlers.It allows them to seek comfort and reassurance on their own terms,for as long and as often as they need.Despite your best efforts,mum and dad are not always available to reassure him.
   Comfort items are particularly useful when your child has a big challenge coming up,like starting nursery.It will remind him of you and of home in those early days,and will probably allow your little one to relax a little and speed up the settling in process.Have a word with the staff and explain how important the blanket is.They'll be used to looking after such treasures.
   When your little one's settled into his new environment,you can work together towards leaving it on the peg for short periods and building up to him managing without it.For the time being it really won't matter.