Stuffed Dolls “Always Check the Trash” (Ages 3-8)
Our plane is scheduled to leave in one hour for the family vacation. All of us are running hastily around the house in a panic, and it looks as if we are not going to make it. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this circumstance?A. The airplane tickets can’t be located C. The car keys have disappeared
B. The travelers’ checks can’t be found D. Tatters is missing
Misplacing A, B, or C, would be a minor annoyance compared to the life-shattering potential for the consequences of D. You see, Tatters, is my youngest child’s inseparable companion, a simple, ragged, stuffed doll he goes nowhere without. NOWHERE. Why? Maybe because Tatters:
1. Provides more security at bedtime than searchlights and alarms.
2. Comforts my child in times of distress or loneliness.
3. Keeps my child’s confidences safe and sound.
4. No longer makes my child the youngest child.
5. Is closer to my child’s size.
6. Allows my child to yell at him up without retaliation.
7. Never says, “No,” “Don’t do that,” or “Go to time-out.”
And to ensure in the future that nothing threatens this relationship, I will keep the following list posted in plain sight:
1. Don’t take it too far from home.
2. Always check the kitchen trash before dumping it.
3. Don’t let anyone hang it out the car window.
4. Never attempt to wash it. (Corollary: keep it away from dirty diapers.)
5. Keep an eye on it when the dog is around.
6. Have two or three duplicates on hand, if possible.
7. Don’t ever suggest to replace it with a look-a-like.
8. Keep tabs on it on a regular basis.
Yes, there are tradeoffs to having this inanimate friend for your child, but given the choice, I believe you should encourage it. More than likely your child’s attraction and attachment to an inanimate friend will occur naturally; however, if it doesn’t, here is what to do: Attend a garage sale and look for the, most tattered, pathetic, worn-out doll there, then grab it fast before someone else does.
Rex Bowlby is the father of two boys. He is the author of the book, Why Would I Want the Toy, When I Can Have the Box? (101 Ways to Make the Most of Your Children, With the Least from Your Wallet*) *For parents with children ages 3-8. He lives in Los Angeles, California, USA.