There are many emotional and developmental benefits of teddies. Regardless of age, teddy bears provide us with a sense of security making them the perfect companion. 

Younger Children
Through touch, hugs and cuddles they help young children to foster emotional growth, resilience and help them learn about emotions, social skills, and empathy. Teddies also support Children’s physical development, in particular their fine motor skills.

When a child feels stressed and needs to be soothed, a teddy can be offered as a comforting object, they provide a feeling of safety and familiarity. Teddies embody familiar smells, have their own distinguishing features which makes each one unique and they often contribute to many happy childhood memories.

Teddies can help children develop their imagination, creativity and problem solving skills. 

As children become more independent, they may reach for their favourite teddy friend when embarking on new adventures, when they feel unwell, when caregivers are away, when in new or unfamiliar surroundings. Teddies have been proven to help children develop skills to self-soothe and help them with emotional regulation.

Older children
As kids get older, they are more frequently presented with situations that may require time away from parents or caregivers. Children go on their first sleepovers, trips to visit grandparents, or spend time away on school trips etc. Their beloved teddy can travel with them and allows them to carry a little dose of home, support and love wherever they go. 

As older children become more emotionally aware, the security and safety of their teddy bear can enable them to recognise and unpack tricky emotions. Teddies can often be a confidant for children to confide in.

Teens, Young Adults, and Adults
Our society unfortunately views stuffed animals as exclusively for children, however science tells us that teddies are beneficial for people of all ages. Hospitals are happy to accept plush donations because of the soothing effects for patients, especially children and teens that are forced to be away from home for long periods of time.

Teens and adults that suffer from anxiety, low self esteem, PTSD, or other emotionally stressful states have seen improvements in their symptoms with the presence of a teddy bear or other soft, cuddly object. 

Although many people may not admit it, one study found that as many as 40% of adults sleep with a comfort object such as a teddy bear. So let’s get rid of the stigma and find your favourite super soft and snuggly plushie today!!

Blue Bear & Co. teddies are the perfect companion, “Bears for Life”.