A Blanket — An Obsession for an Autistic Child

There is nothing surprising about an autistic child’s excessive attachment to a blanket — in fact, this is a very common and understandable behavior. This “obsession” usually serves important sensory, emotional, and regulatory functions, through various ways and for several reasons. However, efforts should be made so that the blanket stops being seen as a “best friend.”

It is important to an autistic child for several reasons:

1. The Blanket Provides Sensory Comfort

• Primarily, this relates to tactile sensations. The texture, weight, and softness of the blanket apply deep pressure or create a soothing tactile feeling that helps regulate the nervous system. This can produce a sense of “grounding” and reduce sensory overload.
• Proprioceptive input is also involved, as even a light blanket’s weight provides comforting feedback about body position in space.
• The blanket has a familiar, calming scent that enhances the feeling of safety.

2. Emotional Safety and Self-Regulation

• The blanket becomes a “refuge”—a portable and reliable source of comfort in an often overwhelming world. It acts as a “constant” amid unpredictable changes.
• Holding or wrapping oneself in the blanket reduces anxiety and helps manage stress.
• Emotional regulation involves using the blanket as a tool for self-soothing during moments of stress, overload, or excitement, helping calm down after a meltdown or shutdown.

3. Predictability Is Also Important

• The blanket is always the same and unchanging. Its presence provides a sense of order and stability amidst chaos.
• Having the blanket is part of important rituals like preparing for sleep, resting, or transitioning between activities.

4. It Also Has Communicative Functions

• A child searching for their blanket can use it as an indicator of needs, signaling fatigue, anxiety, overload, or a need for comfort and regulation.

If a child has chosen a blanket for any reason, they should be supported.

1. It must be understood that this is not a bad habit or a behavioral quirk to be eliminated, but a vital coping mechanism. Taking away the blanket as punishment or to “make the child stronger” is harmful and counterproductive.
2. Within reasonable limits, the child should have the right to use the blanket whenever needed, especially in stressful or potentially stressful situations. The blanket should be seen as necessary “equipment.”
3. Such a “best friend” can wear out over time, so it is important to have several identical blankets and rotate them regularly so they wear evenly and keep a similar scent. Washing should follow a schedule—before the blanket becomes obviously dirty. The child needs to be explained that washing keeps the blanket pleasant. Visual schedules with washing dates can help, and the child can be involved by, for example, helping put the blanket in the washing machine. While the blanket dries, offer a substitute if necessary. Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergents and wash when the child is busy or sleeping if they have difficulty being apart from the blanket.
4. Ideally, it is better to wean the child off their blanket attachment.

• Very short periods without the blanket can be introduced in a safe, calm environment, gradually increasing the time. Calm behavior should be praised.
• Alternative comfort items might be appreciated — a small piece of similar fabric, a tactile stress-relief toy, or a weighted lap pad. However, the adjustment process will take some time.

The main thing to remember is that for an autistic child, the blanket is not just bedding but an “island of stability.” Removing such attachment is unlikely while the child’s condition continues to be affected by the disorder itself. The fastest and most reliable way to overcome it is through cell therapy — the only current procedure that comprehensively fights autism rather than merely alleviating its symptoms.

It is based on the ability of stem cells to transform into any other type of cell and replace damaged ones after transplantation. The patient’s own biological material is used, eliminating rejection and making the therapy completely safe. Essentially, it stimulates the body’s “dormant” regenerative capabilities and is therefore very natural.

The cell renewal process leads to normalization of brain and nervous system function. This stabilizes behavior, which stops being unpredictable; development and skill acquisition or improvement accelerate. Additionally, all manifestations of autism become less pronounced and often disappear entirely. These changes last for a long time or even a lifetime in many cases, improving the effectiveness of supplementary therapies.

The proven effectiveness of recently developed cell therapy has led to its transition from an experimental approach to a widely recognized method that may become the primary means of combating autism and its symptoms. It is currently used in leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center. There, extensive successful experience with stem cell transplantation has been accumulated, performed by highly qualified specialists using the latest equipment, which ensures the best possible therapeutic results. The treatment meets the highest standards and is more affordable than in other countries with developed healthcare systems. Additionally, the center offers full support in planning trips and resolving various issues, including accommodation during rehabilitation.

Cell therapy is the best chance to overcome autism!