DS has just turned 3. When he was a few months old, he gave up the dummy and instead started sucking on the years of a cuddly toy (a rabbit with long ears). Ever since then, he's had this rabbit with him whenever he goes to sleep, and he's been a fantastic sleeper from 12 weeks.
Last week he had his first dental checkup. The paediatric dentist told me that he's already getting an overbite, which might correct itself if we take away the rabbit now. It might not correct itself, in which case he'll need braces, but in any case we need to stop the rabbit NOW before it gets any worse.
Called DH on the way home and he agreed that we should do it. That night I explained gently to DS that Rabbit had had to go away, and that he would have to be a big boy. He was a bit upset but seemed to accept it. The next day we were on holiday for a week with his cousins, and while he asked for the rabbit, he didn't seem too bothered as he was too busy having fun.
Now we're back and he's upset. DS still naps in the afternoon when at home and yesterday he wouldn't settle at all, either in the afternoon or in the evening. DH and his parents, who have been staying with us, are convinced it's because the rabbit has gone, and are really upset by it all. I'm obviously unhappy that DS is upset too, but am sticking to my guns. It's been 10 days and I think if we bring it back now, it'll confuse him. And after hearing what the dentist said, I don't want to wait for DS to give up the rabbit himself, which might be years.
Anyone been in a similar position and what did you do? Neither DH or myself ever had braces so don't know how bad it actually is to have them. Thanks in advance!