In a fast-paced world filled with constant stimuli and pressures, weighted plushies are the solution for comfort. No matter your age, these cuddly companions provide a sense of relaxation in the form of a plush toy with the same effects of a weighted blanket.
What is a weighted stuffed animal?
Also known as weighted stuffies or weighted plushies, a weighted stuffed animal is basically a stuffed animal toy with a weight caused by glass beads, plastic pellets, or grains.
Weighted stuffed animals usually weigh between 1-5 pounds, and are often used by children (and adults in some cases) with anxiety.
How can my children use a weighted stuffed animal?
Weighted plushies are associated with deep touch pressure therapy. It involves applying gentle and distributed pressure across the body. This kind of pressure releases serotonin and dopamine, both of which are responsible for relaxation and reduced stress.
As weighted stuffies help aid mental wellness, children can use them by hugging and holding them. They can sleep with their weighted companion in bed, carry them as they move around the house, or hug them as they play and study throughout the day.
For families going on a road trip or a flight, you can bring along a weighted stuffed animal to help ease your children’s anxiety.
Image by Bermix Studio
The benefits of weighted plushies
1. Anxiety and stress relief
Weighted plushies are well-loved for their ability to reduce anxiety and stress levels. The gentle weight often feels like a warm, comforting hug, and in many cases, that exact feeling can help reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
2. Enhanced focus and attention
Weighted plushies are also great for improving focus and attention. For individuals with conditions like ADHD, a weighted plushie can provide a sensory outlet that promotes better concentration. It serves as a grounding force for restless energy and allows the mind to stay on track with tasks.
Image by Kelly Sikkema
3. Better sleep quality
Weighted plushies may be your solution for those who find it difficult to wind down before bed or have insomnia. The deep-touch pressure of a weight plushie aids in regulating sleep patterns and offers a sense of security. Altogether, these two factors contribute to a better night’s rest.
4. Emotional support and comfort
Besides its physical benefits, weighted plushies offer emotional support to its users. They’re cherished companions during times of loneliness or sadness. Their soft textures and gentle weight are a tangible source of solace for anyone who needs a little extra warmth and reassurance.
5. Sensory support
For children with autism, weighted stuffed animals can offer deep pressure touch and replicate the same kind of hugging sensation without the need to hug another person. The gentle pressure of these weighted toys may also help with sensory issues and ensure a sense of security as your child calms down during meltdowns.
Are weighted stuffed animals safe for children?
While weighted stuffed animals are safe, it’s important to know a few safety considerations before getting one for your child.
- Weight: Is the weighted stuffie too heavy for your child to hold or to sleep with?
- Size: Is the weighted stuffie too big for your child?
- Choking hazards: Does your weighted stuffie have damaged zippers, loose threads, or small parts that can be swallowed?
- Age: Is your child too young for weighted stuffed animals?*
*Weighted stuffed animals are not recommended for children under three years old due to the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Where can I get a weighted stuffed animal for my kids?
There are numerous sites and brands that you can buy weighted stuffed animals from, including Lilly’s Love on everet.co.
Whether your children are working late or studying for an test, our Weighted Stuffed Animals are here to keep you company. They come in four different animal companions: Stevie the Sloth, Dexter the Dog, Pete the Panda, and Benji the Bear.
Our weighted stuffies are soft and cuddly to the touch and weighs 4.5 lbs each. They contain non-toxic glass beads and a removable insert that you can take out whenever you need to wash the toy.
Our Lilly’s Love Weighted Stuffed Animals are truly the best kind of gift for everyone, no matter the age or occasion. You can bring them along on your next adventure or tuck yourself into bed with them.
Also read: 10 Tips for a Successful Outdoor Adventure With Your Children
Final thoughts
Weighted stuffed animals are a great companion for children with a handful benefits for their well-being. These adorable stuffed toys are good for reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing focus, and ensuring emotional and sensory support for kids with ADHD and autism.
However, if you’re considering getting a weighted stuffed animal for your child, do some research first. Consider your child’s sensory needs, their physical strength, and their weight. Not all weighted toys feel and weigh the same, so it’s important to find out which kind of weighted toy suits your child the best.
