Are Stuffed animals "Too Childish" for a Certain Age? Let's talk

At what age is it too old to have stuffed animals?
At what age should I stop having stuffed animals?
At what age do children stop loving cuddly toys?

If you've ever typed one of these questions into a search engine, rest assured: you're not alone. In a world where we're pushed to "grow up" very quickly, keeping a favorite cuddly toy or stuffed animal can give rise to judgments or doubts.

But let's get one thing straight: there's no age limit on comfort.

At what age are we "too old" for stuffed animals ?

In reality, there's no universal age at which to stop having stuffed animals. Some children naturally grow out of them as early as 7 or 8, while others will keep their favorite stuffed toy on their bed well into adolescence, or even adulthood.

If you're wondering "at what age should you stop having stuffed toys?", ask yourself these questions instead:

• Does this stuffed toy comfort me?

• Does it help me sleep or deal with stress?

• Is it linked to a precious memory or to my identity?

If the answer is yes, then it has an emotional function, and a legitimate one at any age.

At what age do children stop loving stuffed animals?

Many children start to turn to other interests around the age of 9 or 12: video games, sports, socializing, etc. But that doesn't mean that stuffed animals stop being fun. But this doesn't mean that cuddly toys disappear from their lives.

Even if they no longer sleep with them, many children and teenagers keep their favorite stuffed toy ona shelf, in a drawer or in a box-because it represents an emotional bond or a childhood memory.

For some, this bond becomes even stronger with time. A teddy bear given by a grandparent, a cuddly toy that has accompanied a difficult period... all these have a real emotional value.

It's time to normalize plush toys for teens and adults

In an often anxious and overburdened world, why stigmatize what helps us feel better?

Cuddly toys can play an important role in managing emotions, calming us down, and even promoting mental health.They've been recognized as beneficial by professionals, particularly for anxiety, trauma or in neuroatypical people.

So let's normalize:

• Teens who keep their stuffed animals in their bedrooms.

• Students who take a stuffed animal to college or to their dorm.

• Adults who have a stuffed toy in their bed or suitcase when they travel.

There's no shame in seeking comfort. On the contrary, it's a sign of self-awareness.

In a nutshell: Growing up doesn't mean giving up what makes us feel good.

So, at what age are we too old for cuddly toys? The real answer: never.

Soft toys aren't "just for kids". They are :

• Reservoirs of memories

• Sources of comfort

• Stress relievers

• Symbols of love and resilience

Whether you're 8, 18 or 80, if a stuffed animal makes you feel good - keep it. Growing up doesn't mean giving up what makes you serene, happy or whole.