70. Soft toys

Does your child like soft toys?
They're a classic gift for a new baby but they often then sit in the corner unloved and unnoticed for years.
But then something magical happens. They are rediscovered and, like an old friend, it's like they never went away.
Your child is now two or three (or eight!) and the soft toy is no longer just a source of comfort but a companion, someone to invite to tea parties and take on adventures.
The perennial appeal of the cuddly toy is something we can all relate to. A first soft toy is a friend for your child to care for and look after (in the way they are being looked after themselves). It provides something soft and re-assuring to reach for in new or difficult situations.
Uncomfortable feelings can be projected onto a soft toy, so when a child is scared they can pretend the toy is scared. No surprise then, that soft toys often become so important to children, and that so many of us keep our own favourite childhood soft toys well into adulthood. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
They can even be passed down through the generations. My wife's teddy bear has now been adopted by my eldest son and he's still in good shape. With a bit of luck he may even get a cuddle from my grandchildren.
Have your say
Keep Learning
-
7. Ball
Balls are useful play apparatus throughout early years development. Here’s how to get the most from a ball at key...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
8. Play Figures - People
Play people are an especially important part of any pre-school toy box.Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
9. Play Figures - Animals
Exploring through play the relationships between animals allows the child to explore power dynamics between individuals and groups, young and old, strong and...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
11. Guide to block play
Is there a better toy than the simple block? Whether you need a castle or a cave, a house or...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
The Ultimate Guide to Playdough
When the first Covid lockdown happened, the first thing I did was try to buy lots of flour. I've got four...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
29. Easel
Find it hard to believe an easel is essential? It's actually a brilliant piece of equipment to have around, for...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
33. Vehicles
Vehicle-play has plenty more to offer beyond the obvious making of engine noises, crashes and races - all of which...Alexis Ralphs Jan 24, 2021 -
91. Guide to Puzzles
What's so special about puzzles? Why are they such a perennial classic, a winning gift that every child is happy...Emma Gouldbourn Jan 24, 2021