Why do children need a teddy bear?

There are many tools that can help a child on the path to becoming a healthy adult. One of your child's most valuable tools might be their beloved teddy bear . Teddy bears, blankets and other cuddly keepsakes are known as transitional items and they play a big role in a child's journey to independence. The amazing thing about these simple toys is that they offer new lessons for every stage of a child's development, from infancy to adulthood.

Transitional objects as a guide for life

The older a child grows, the more their curiosity and understanding of the world around them grows. Transitional objects give the child the opportunity to learn, grow, and solve problems while providing comfort and support through these lessons. A simple teddy bear toy can teach valuable lessons to a child through the different stages of development. In the waking phase as games and toys or at bedtime to help him fall asleep a soft stuffed animal can be of great help to your little love.

Babies: the comfort and security of a teddy bear

Babies explore using their hands and mouths to learn about the world around them. A stuffed bear or blanket provides a soft companion that a child can touch, hug, and cuddle while they develop motor skills . It is completely normal for babies to bond with a transitional object from a very young age. A teddy bear provides an external source of comfort and a sense of stability for the child in the same way as their parents. When a newborn is feeling stressed and needs to be soothed, parents can provide a stuffed animal as a comfort object . This is the first step in a child's journey toward self-sufficiency, and ultimately emotional independence. For children aged 3 and over there are squishies that can reduce their anxiety.

A baby boy and a baby girl begin to associate their special stuffed animals with the same sense of security that Mom or Dad provide. Later, when a child is a little older and begins to develop fine motor skills , he can grab the stuffed animal when his parents are not around. Hopefully, the child will learn to find that same comfort within himself. This process takes years, but it can all start with a simple teddy bear.

Toddlers: the companion for developing skills

At the toddler stage, children work on developing fine motor skills as well as basic vocabulary. A large stuffed animal provides a safe way for a child to practice honing these skills since children can follow their stuffed friend on all their adventures. Children can begin to connect words to actions and objects , using their cuddly toy and company as a guide. Small stuffed animals also allow children to practice the same life skills they learn from their caregivers. A child can brush their bear's teeth, practice dressing it and put it to sleep at night, just like their parents do. Practicing and strengthening these skills will help a child learn to do the same things on their own.

Since this is a time when a child's creativity and understanding of the world quickly expands, it is important that children have the opportunity to integrate new pieces of information. Peluche Kingdom brings you teddy bears and stuffed animals with soft, neutral expressions so that children have the chance to project their own emotions, imagination and creativity onto them.

Young children: Imagination flourishes with teddy bears open to creative play

As children grow out of the toddler stage, their imaginations develop and anything seems possible. Open-ended toys like teddy bears help spark their creativity because they put the power of play in the child's hands. Unlike electronic toys that simply require a child to press a button for a response, simple games can transform into anything the child desires or imagines. Maybe their teddy bear can fly, or he's a famous singer or doctor. Open-ended toys allow children to choose how they play, and allow them to think and decide for themselves how imaginary situations might play out. Play time that gives free rein to the child's imagination stimulates their creativity and gives them the opportunity to practice problem solving .

Preteens: emotional support during new experiences

As children grow, they more often face situations that may require time away from their parents or caregivers. Kids have their first sleepovers, trips to visit grandparents, or spend time in after-school programs. Their stuffed animals can travel with them and allow them to carry a little dose of support and love wherever they go.

Children also begin to be more in touch with their emotions at this stage. Instead of throwing a tantrum and moving on, children this age can start to ask themselves what has upset them or what they need to feel better. A teddy bear provides a presence to retreat and unpack messy emotions. Like a child confessing to their stuffed animal how they feel, or trying to comfort the stuffed teddy by telling it everything will be okay, they are truly practicing soothing themselves, speaking through delicate emotions.

Adolescents, young adults and adults: the calming effect

Our society unfortunately views stuffed animals exclusively for children, but science tells us that stuffed animals are beneficial for people of all ages . Hospitals are happy to accept plush donations because of the calming effects for patients, especially children and adolescents who are forced to be away from home for long periods of time. or other states of emotional stress saw improvements in their symptoms with the presence of the teddy bear or other soft, cuddly object. Although people may not admit it due to stigma, one study found that up to 40% of adults sleep with a comfort object like a teddy bear.

The power of a soft toy

Many people may think of teddy bears or stuffed animals as just cute children's toys, but they have the potential to offer much more. A single stuffed toy, blanket, or other cuddly object can provide vital lessons through childhood and comfort as an adult. A teddy bear can be your child's first teacher.

In its different forms, a baby soft toy will bring different benefits :
- Plush hot water bottle : relieves teething and colic
- Musical plush : entertains and soothes
- Plush comforter : comfort and security
- Large animal plush : emotional expression and reassurance
- Reversible plush : awareness and fine motor skills

Conclusion: The magic of cuddly toys and stuffed animals is timeless

Whether it's a teddy bear, a unicorn or a panda, these plush companions offer comfort and tenderness to your baby, just like their pacifier. Their fluffy softness and adorable look make them the ideal birth and birthday gifts . From the little bear to the big teddy bear, they are there to be cuddled and become your child's best friend. With their mischievous eyes and realistic fur, animal soft toys awaken the imagination and stimulate the development of little ones. Whether small or giant, machine washable or hand embroidered, comforters and plush toys offer precious comfort and an endless source of joy . So don't hesitate to expand your collection of soft toys and use them to decorate your child's room, because these adorable companions are ready to share wonderful moments with your baby.

Discover our collection of Night Lights and Luminous Plush Toys to comfort infants and encourage them to fall asleep!

Would you like a gift idea with a personalized soft toy ? Contact our customer service , we will help you find the ideal gift !