Strap to fasten cuddly toy to DC?

[TheLovelinessOfDemons]

DS 9 has ADHD and is almost inseparable from his Bear. He has the opportunity to go to camp the first time this summer, but has said he'll only go if he can strap Bear to him. Is there anything I could buy to do this? I want to build up his confidence, but I don't want to force him.

Hi does he want it attached like a Rucksack? Not sure if it would work but maybe something like the old style reigns turned the other way so the buckle is at the front and Bear can be tucked into the? Or a LittleLife rucksack that is small/lightweight if he would fit? x

Ooh yes like a doll sling could work.

My initial thought was like a dummy strap - fasten around bear's arm or put a ribbon around its neck to attach to. Then it clips onto the child's clothing.

But a doll sling would probably be better. You can get little versions of like the Ergo carrier etc or just unbranded ones.

I've just asked him and he's not happy with this. I don't think he'll be happy with anything. Thanks everyone for your help though.

How big is Bear? Can he attach him under his t-shirt in some way? Wear him in a sling under his clothes? Carry him in a bum bag round his middle? You get lots of stretchy ones now for running and sports, you can fit a lot in those.

He's about a foot tall. DS2 still doesn't like the idea of any of these suggestions. I think we'll have to say no thanks. It's a shame, because if he never goes to a residential, he'll never build up confidence.

Ah that's a shame.

Is he worried about other people seeing his bear? What about taking the bear in an overnight case, you could perhaps make up a little bed for him so he'll be safe/cosy and he'll know exactly where he is.

FWIW lots, likely most 9 year olds will bring a bear to a residential trip. When DS1 started secondary they went on a residential to bond with each other and a bear was in the packing list even though the kids were 10/11 (we are not in UK).

OTOH if he's not ready that's OK too. Plenty of kids aren't keen on leaving home overnight until more like 11/12.

No, he's worried about losing him. Bear is only second to me in his life. He wants to have him strapped to him during activities. He says only family are allowed to hold on to him.

Would bear fit in a drawstring bag, perhaps with its head poking out, that DS could carry?

I'll put this to him when he comes home, but I think he's decided he's not going.