Babe Camelia

Babe Camelia

Wednesday 12 September 2012

A Friend For Life - Navigating The World Of Soft Toys

A Friend For Life - Navigating The World Of Soft Toys

There's no denying that, when chosen correctly, a soft toy can remain an important part of a child's life right up and throughout their adult years. Some soft toys, in fact, will end up being passed on through families and into new generations. So it makes sense that you spend a little longer choosing which soft toy is right for the person you're buying it for, as it will almost definitely be around for a very long time.

First things first, make sure that the soft toy you choose is safe for small children. You need to look out for a mark of certified quality, as well as check out the workmanship – all eyes, noses and parts must be securely fastened, seams must be sewn tightly shut. It wouldn't do to have your soft toy disintegrating on the first hug now, would it?
 Secondly, think carefully about which soft toy character you want to buy. Is it going to be something as timeless as a teddy-bear, as simple as a sock puppet or something bang up-to-date, such as a Moshi Monster? Whichever you decide to choose, be aware that it'll be sticking around for a good while – do you really think the latest craze will last the sands of time?
 Thirdly, do you want a simple soft toy, or do you want your plush toy to pack some extra punch? Plenty of soft toys available now offer everything from sound effects (everybody loves a chatterbox!) to scent-sations (it isn't a teddy-bear unless it smells like strawberries!), so you can get a hi-tech softy or an old classic.

Fourthly, think about the person you are buying the soft toy for. Is it a new-born baby, looking for a simple comforter? Then you'll be better off with a traditional bear. Is it an older baby, learning to walk and talk? Then try an interactive soft toy to help stimulate their learning and help them through their development. Older children will probably have a strong idea of what they want for themselves, whereas adults usually prefer a soft toy with sentimental value – think retro and think simple.
 When chosen correctly, soft toys can have a hugely beneficial effect. Hugging a plush toy releases the "attachment hormone" oxytocin, which helps to slow the heart rate, soothe breathing, lower blood pressure and reduce the effects of stress. Result! That makes the cuddly creation a bona fide soothing agent. What could be better than that?

http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/a-friend-for-life-navigating-the-world-of-soft-toys-6123756.html

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