Forming an Early Friendship

For many small children, a simple piece of cloth can provide real comfort. Chances are, you developed a close bond with your baby blanket, toting it all over the house until mom and dad encouraged you to curtail the habit. Stuffed animals represent a step up from the blanket fixation, and it’s no coincidence that they are often imbued with human names and “personalities.”

Whether it’s a raggedy teddy bear or a new plush tiger, a stuffed animal represents a child’s constant companion during a highly important stage of social development. We’re all familiar with the image of the little girl hosting a tea party for her dolls and stuffed animals. This scene could easily be seen as a snapshot of the socialization process. By the time we’re finished with stuffed animals, we are more ready to make real friends. The success of this process cannot be denied.

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