The Psychology Behind Children’s Love of Stuffed Animals
Now more than ever, children have a wide variety of toy types to play with. But stuffed animals remain a popular favorite.
What is the secret to the special bond between children and plush toys? Read on to understand more about the psychology behind children’s love of stuffed animals.
Stuffed Animals Create a Sense of Calm and Safety
While nothing compares to or replaces a parent’s love, it’s not usually possible for parents to be around all the time. Fortunately, stuffed animals are on-call around the clock. Kids enjoy knowing they can turn to their stuffed toys for comfort and cuddles at any time.
Babies, toddlers, and young children love to squeeze, hug, and play with their furry friends. The feeling of soft, familiar toys helps children feel secure. The coloring and facial expressions of friendly stuffed animals also offer kids reassurance.
They Nurture Empathy and Compassion
The gentle features of plush toys entice children to care for them, and the dimensions and softness of the toy make it easy to comfortably carry a stuffed animal around. Children develop a bond with their toys through daily interactions, which deepens their care for their toys.
Children take care of their toys’ well-being by feeding, dressing, and playing with them. Children can discuss their feelings and their toys’ feelings and explain information to their toys. And just as a stuffed animal reassures a child that everything is OK, the child reassures their toy the same.
Stuffed Animals Have Unique Personalities
One important factor to consider in the psychology behind children’s love of stuffed animals is how the toys develop unique personalities. Through interactions and shared history with the child, a stuffed animal becomes a special character.
Parents of children with stuffed animal loveys know how irreplaceable these items can become. An imitation of a stuffed toy won’t receive the same affection from a child as their real toy does.
Bunnies by the Bay carries a selection of stuffed animals perfect for gift-giving occasions and everyday moments. Celebrate a new baby with our custom baby girl gifts, such as an adorable stuffed animal with a personal embroidered message. Shop with us today.