Some babies never use them. Other kids, like the Peanuts cartoon character Linus, never let them go.
For these babies, a favorite “blankie” offers more than warmth. It offers countless snuggles, soothing comfort and a sense of security.
Wrap up a security blanket this holiday season for a baby on your list, and who knows? The baby may wrap himself in it for years to come. Here are a few suggestions:
Benny Blanket by Rumpus ($24) is a security blanket that can be rolled into a smiley character with bushy, fringed hair, perfect for play after a nap. Available in red, purple, pink and baby blue, the 15-inch blanket is made of soft polar fleece. A storybook called “Benny Blanket” by Jennifer Rubell ($5) also is available. It’s illustrated with claymation art and gives the lowdown on Benny. Find Benny Blanket at Naturally, 2906 Central St., Evanston; Tales and Toys, 610 Central Ave., Highland Park; Peanut Gallery, 1440 N. Kingsbury St.; Museum of Contemporary Art store, 220 E. Chicago Ave.; and FAO Schwarz stores.
Coming Home by Lands’ End offers a polar fleece baby blanket ($24, item No. 3871-3012) in a variety of soft colors, so it’s easy to match to a nursery’s decor. Each blanket is 30 inches by 40 inches and, for an additional $5, can be monogrammed with the baby’s first and middle name, birth date and birth weight. Choose from nine colors: rhubarb, powder blue, soft rose, royal blue, soft green, sunlight, red, ivory and periwinkle. To order, call 800-963-4816.
Biobottoms’ Dutch Knotty Doll ($18, item No. BB4939) is a cross between a blankie and a doll. The comfort doll’s body is made of cozy cotton flannel and has teething knots in its corners. The doll’s face is finished in pink or tan, non-toxic paint and doubles as a rattle. The doll also is machine washable. To order, call 800-766-1254.