Blanket training is an approach used to train toddlers and pre-schoolers to attain self-discipline. With consistent training, the child will acquire an ability to play contentedly and quietly by him/herself for an extended period of time.
A parent designates a certain amount of time (usually 15-45 minutes, depending on the age of the child) that a child must sit by him/herself on a blanket on the floor. The child is not permitted to leave the parameters of the blanket, and may play quietly with a toy while seated on the blanket. After daily training in this manner, eventually the child will sit and play quietly on the blanket whenever and wherever the child is asked to do so. A blanket is used in this method of training because of its easy portability and accessibility in almost any time or location, such as during meal preparations, meetings, ceremonies, and medical appointments.
Known practitioners of the practice include the Duggars Opponents of blanket training call it emotionally abusive. However, child development experts deem this training a satisfactory method for attaining the necessary life skill of self-control as an adult, if gentle redirection and positive verbal reinforcement is used by the parent. They also highlight the fact that the parent of a blanket-trained child is able to confidently keep their children closeby while engaged in business and maintenance activities rather than rely on extra-familial childcare.