We have always believed that under every Christmas tree belongs a Teddy Bear.
Teddy Bear gifts are an universal expression of caring, a symbol of love and affection. At Bear Essentials Teddy Bear Hospital we restore very old bears which have followed their owners all their live. So when choosing one as a gift you do want to buy the right one. Here is a guide of Christmas Teddy gifts for different ages to help you find the best type of teddy bear for each age group.
From Birth
Teddy Bears and comforters have to be safe, soft and machine washable. No small parts should be attached like buttons or ribbons or name tags. We always recommend stitched eyes instead of plastic safety eyes, even so they should be safe. A bear for baby should be small enough for little fingers.
Our recommendation would be brands like Steiff or Jellycat. You can also find first comforters here or our unique first Irish Made Bears.
1-3 Years
Safety is a must for toddlers. At this age kids like to bring their beloved Teddy Bear everywhere. It gives them comfort and security. At this stage you also have to think ahead. If your child or grandchild has taken to a particular Teddy Bear you might want to get a second one in case the first one needs repairing in the future.
Ideally you want to get a medium size Teddy that is not too small to get lost, but easy enough to bring with you everywhere. And medium sized Teddy Bears can give better hugs then small ones.
Our recommendation would be Steiff, Bukowski Bears and Unitoys
3-5 Years
Its more likely that at this stage a child has a favourite Teddy Bear already. Kids are looking for outfits and accessories to dress up their bear. They also love to get a teddy or bunny to make up a family. Roleplay is a big part of this age group. Some children choose at this age a favourite animal, like a cat, dog, horse or dinosaur which they will collect in the future. One of our sons had a huge owl collection by the time he was 10 years old.
For soft toy animals and plushies we recommend Unitoys, Ravensden, Jellycat and Bukowski Design.
5-10 Years
At this age you want a Teddy Bear with character. He has to show personality in size and how he looks. A good size Teddy for interactive play would be great. One that takes up space in the bed and can be hugged whenever you feel like it. Some children love bears with big ribbons or clothes on them. Again some might prefer a large animal. That could be one looking like their favourite pet, farm animal or any wild animal.
We recommend Unitoys, Bukowski Design and Ravensden
For 10 years and older Children
At this stage you want to look for a keepsake. A bear that is of really good, long life quality. It could be a large bear for a child’s room or a little travel bear to be taken on journeys. A child at this age will always remember who he got the bear from. A collectible bear at this stage might be the right option. A Teddy Bear to love and to cherish. Best quality would be mohair, alpaca or wool qualities.
We would recommend our own Irish Made Bears (one offs), Charlie Bears or highly collectible, limited edition Steiff Bears.
Our Christmas Teddy gifts for different ages guide does includes adults as well.
For Adults & Collectors
There are so many reasons to buy a bear for an adult. You might be looking for a seasonal teddy bear for Christmas, Mother’s Day, Birthday or Valentine’s Day.
We recommend our Love You Bears, they always show what you would like to say.
You might like a bear for a special occasion. A personalised one might be a lovely touch. Have a look at options of customisation. Also Keel Toys Bears.
If you like to give something really special you want to choose a collectible, limited edition Teddy Bear as in a Steiff Bear or one of our Irish Made Bears (one offs)
For a Memory Bear please see our Angel Bears.
We hope you do enjoy giving someone a special Teddy Bear this Christmas.
