It is helpful to squirt some of Mom's colgone or hand lotion or something familiar to the child on the object. It will help him remember Mom and may be soothing to him.
When I taught Sp. Ed. PreK, we suggested to parents that they saturate a hankie with "their scent" for the child to carry in his pocket for children who were having separation issuses.
Or, a squishy ball or soft ball with spikes (I don't know what they call them) he can carry in his pocket might be helpful.
It sounds like he is just reacting to all of the changes in his life.......