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Ask Dr. Ana: Are Weighted Blankets Safe for Kids With Anxiety?

Parenting expert Dr. Ana answers if weighted blankets can help kids with anxiety, offering safety tips and advice for choosing the right one.

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Updated: August 7, 2025
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Updated: August 7, 2025

Question:

Thoughts on a weighted blanket for kids? Will it smother? I want to help their anxiety.

Dr. Ana’s Answer:

Weighted blankets have been used for a long time, especially for children with autism of behavioural issues. They may provide benefits for people with anxiety, but the reality is that there is not much research about it. So, go ahead if you want to give it a go but it may or may not help your child. Ideally, you should look for one that is no more than 10% of your child’s body weight so it is not too heavy.  

Please note that you should never use a weighted blanket for children under the age of 2.  

I hope this information helps. Here are some articles related to anxiety that you may find useful: 

Love,  

Ana 

Dr Ana Aznar 

Do you have questions for Dr. Ana? Ask for free today!


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Dr. Ana Aznar

About Ana

Dr. Ana Aznar is the founder of REC Parenting. She is a psychologist with a passion to support… Read more

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