ABSTRACT
Babies and young children create a special kind of play with the soft cuddly toys and blankets with which they form attachments. They empower their treasured toys with personal meaning that comforts, provides companionship, and withstands assault. Having a treasured toy is a developmental achievement that promotes the child’s ability to self-soothe, to tolerate frustration and ambivalent feelings, and to regulate emotions. This chapter is about the enduring memory of treasured toys: the loving and cherished memories and the painful haunting memories. Vignettes include memories of lost bunnies, replaced bunnies, and imposter bunnies; discarded treasured toys, preserved and bequeathed ones. When memories of treasured toys are recalled, comfort and pleasure are evoked. Attachment to the memory of treasured toys endures.
