Teddy Bear Gifts

There are many occasions that call for a gift to be given: birthday, Valentines Day, birth of a baby, Christmas, Mother's Day. Choosing what to give can be a daunting task - from clothing, to toys, to flowers, the possibilities are simply endless. Teddy bears are one gift that never go out of style. Young and old alike all appreciate receiving teddy bear gifts especially when it's unexpected. Who says a gift has to be given on a particular day or occasion? There are no rules governing gift giving and a plush bear gift is the perfect surprise present for an unsuspecting but well deserved friend or loved one.

Since teddy bears first graced us with their presence in 1902, we have been hooked. They have been highly successful in bringing comfort and companionship to millions. From the original classic design that has spawned countless imitations to period pieces and one-of-a-kinds, plush bears are cherished by their owners and families. It's no surprise to find then, that a teddy bear gift is always just what the doctor ordered. And, when it's unexpected, a plush bear gift is that much more special.

You don't have to be a collector of plush toys to appreciate a plush bear gift. For the past 100 years, teddy bears have been hailed as the world's most popular toy and are loved by children and adults alike. From what was once a humble nursery companion (and in many cases, still is today), to a valuable collector's item that is dominant in the soft-toy market, plush bears and bear gifts have made a huge resurgence. With the growing number of adults who have confessed to loving their old teddies, they are prepared to shell out large sums for vintage bears, particularly those made by the original teddy bear creator, Margarete Steiff. In addition to having these teddies for themselves, these same adults want to also impart those same feelings of having a plush bear, on newer generations, thus giving a teddy bear gift to their children and other loved ones, has never been more popular.

It's difficult to pinpoint exactly what makes a plush bear so special; their physical qualities are certainly a part of their overall appeal, in addition to the fact that when first created, they were able to withstand rough and tumble treatment, unlike most other toys made at that same time. And, while the bear's appearance certainly adds to its altruistic appeal, and if the next thing, a blanket of security you can get, for all that you should know that it is much more than just a toy. Bears often become our constant companion through childhood, sharing triumphs and disasters are there to comfort us in times of need and participate in our adventures, whether big or small.

The Reasons Why Kids Love Stuffed Animals

There simply must be an answer to why children getting attached to teddy bears or blanket. Actually, there is not just one reason, but there are many reasons. With each different reason is a different child with their own unique story.

The most common reason for this attachment to stuffed animals is the fear of darkness. Little children tend to be afraid of the dark. Therefore, they seek comfort from they're favorite teddy bear or stuffed bunny. This comfort comes from their sense of friendship the get from this special item. Being young, they may not have that many friends yet. This gives children the chance to imagine that their special item is the best friend ever.

Perhaps the teddy bear that these children hold so dear was given to them by a very special person. For example, a grandmother that has passed away or even just their loving parents going out of their way to make their child happy. That would definitely create some good memories. The certain smell of that item may also bring back some good times. For instance, the stuffed toy that the child is so attached to may smell like that apple pie that Aunt May used to make. This is all described in one word; memories.

The life of a child can be filled with ambiguity and clinging on tightly to a special toy gives them a great amount of security of having something familiar right beside them along the way. Toys give children the opportunity to express themselves imaginatively through the use of role play. They are uncomplaining friends that will never tell the child that it is "much too rainy to play" or "I don't want to be your friend anymore" and they will be strong against a barrage of conflicting feelings and treatment, thus helping your child build up an emotional awareness of his or her surroundings.

Children have a tendency to outgrow their special toys when they start school. However, for others, even after we have grown to full adulthood, it can still be a comforting thing to take out an old and much loved friend and hold them for a while. There is no harm in a child clinging to a stuffed animal. Just be glad that your child has a sense of security and comfort should they ever feel lonely or scared. That would be a load of your back.

Santa Teddy Bears and the Origins of Santa Clause

There are those that believe that certain kinds of plush toys should only be purchased and given at specific times of the year. Santa teddy bears, for instance, are stuffed animals which imply that because they are made up to look like representations of Santa Clause, they are reserved strictly for the Christmas Holidays. Collectors and lovers of plush toys, however, may have something quite different to say about that notion.

Santa Clause as he is called today, was actually a Christian saint named Bishop Nicholas who was brought to the New World by the first Europeans; in Greenland, vikings dedicated their cathedral to him; Columbus, on December 6, 1942, named a Haitian Port for him; the city of Jacksonville in Florida, was once known as St. Nicholas Ferry - an early settlement of Spaniards. However, despite his stature, in the 16th century, St. Nicholas did not have an easy time of it as Protestant Reformers frowned upon saints of all kinds. In fact, both reformers and counter-reformers tried to get rid of all St. Nicholas-related customs although their long term success was limited in most places except in England where religious folk traditions were changed permanently. Since St. Nicholas was so loved by the common people on the European continent, they continued to place sweets, nuts, and apples in shoes, beside beds, on windowsills, and before the fireplace hearth, for him to collect.

Despite the wide belief that it was the Dutch who were the first to bring St. Nicholas traditions to New Amsterdam, there is little evidence in Dutch New Netherland, to support that theory. In Pennsylvania, however, Colonial Germans kept the feast of St. Nicholas and there are other accounts of St. Nicholas visiting the New York Dutch on New Year's Eve (gift-giving on New Year's Eve had been an English custom since 1558 and could still be found in New York up until 1847).

Cultural transition was rampant in the 19th century and as was the case, New York writers among others, looked to 'domesticate' the Christmas holiday. Old Christmas traditions were not the ones we know today - families gathering around the hearth exchanging gifts and singing carols - but rather, it was more about mobs roaming the streets drunk, damaging property and scaring the upper classes. The holiday season came after harvest time which meant work slowed down and there was more time for leisure; both servants and workers were able to take the upper hand over their employers in which they demanded money and gifts, amongst other things. At the same time, a different understanding of family life and children's role in the world was taking place. With childhood coming to be seen as a stage in life which needed more protection, sheltering, education, and training, the holiday season became more tame, turning its attention to home and shops. To fit into the changing time, St. Nicholas also took on new attributes.

Whatever your beliefs around the origins of St. Nicholas, there is no denying that Santa teddy bears are a popular part of the Christmas culture. They're really nothing more than traditional teddy bears made up to look like Santa Clause, generally sporting red 'velvet' clothing, black boots, and tiny spectacles. Despite this iconic look, don't think for a minute that Santa teddy bears wouldn't appreciate being seen and loved at all times of the year.

Copyright Shelley Vassall, 2010.

Teddy Bears - When Shouldn't You Give A Teddy Bear?

Teddy Bears started just over 100 years ago, when a cartoonist creation showed then President Teddy Roosevelt concern for a bear cub in a cartoon published in newspapers. Subsequently, they have exploded into toys, mostly stuffed animals, stories, songs, movies, jewelry, advertisements and more.

These lovable critters are often given as gifts to convey the sending of a hug or expression of affection. When is a good time to give one of them. Actually, anytime.

Newborn Gift Many grandparents, as well as aunt and uncles and friends want to do something special and cute to acknowledge the arrival of a new wee one. A cute soft bear dressed up as a baby is an ideal gift. However, one does need to be sure that there are no small parts such as glass or button eyes that could in time fall off and create a hazard to an infant or small child.

Christmas Gift

Christmas is an ideal time to give a special gift to a special person. This does not have to be for a child. Teenager and ladies enjoy this type of gift also. There are many selections, and often at this time of year they are dressed in Mr. or Mrs. Claus outfits.

Birthday It does not matter if the birthday is for a child or adult. Giving a teddy bear is a special gift at any age. It conveys a significant friendship or relationship. There are birthday bears created for this occasion.

Valentine's Day A holiday or semi-holiday when this gift is very appropriate is Valentine's Day. It is quite common for a gentleman to give a stuffed bear to his significant other. Again they often come attired for the occasion.

Graduation Graduations are a special moment in a person's life. It represents a successful academic achievement. Whether it is graduation from high school, college, graduate school or any other academic event, a stuffed teddy dressed in academic robe and gown is an appropriate gift.

Wedding Although wedding gifts are traditionally more practical gifts, bride and groom teddy bears could well be an addition to a more useful gift. For example, let the bear hold the card that is going on the gift. That would be somewhat original and is something that will be treasured and a true remembrance of the special day.

Anniversary Anniversaries are very special commemorations of a couple's wedding day. A special bear make a nice gift for a husband to give his wife or significant other on an anniversary.

Get Well Gift Do you know someone who you want to cheer up, because that person is ill? A stuffed bear will be appreciated and bring a smile. It can be combined with sending flowers. However, flowers only last a few days, but the stuffed animal will be around for a long, long time.

Commemorating Receiving an award or prize A special award or prize is something to acknowledge and to remember. A cute stuffed bear might be a fun way to help the receiver remember the occasion.

Boyfriend to girlfriend gift It is quite common for a boy friend to give a bear to a girl friend. There are many occasions for giving this type of gift. However, probably the most common one is for Valentine's Day.

And a lot more. Although suggesting a variety of occasions for giving one of these gifts, there are endless times when this is an appropriate gift, either of itself or in conjunction with something else, such as candy or flowers. There is almost no time you should not give one of these lovable creatures. In essence, teddy bears are extremely popular and you cannot go wrong giving one to a child or to a lady.

The Enduring Significance of Bears

Personally, I have never been in doubt about the singular importance of a Teddy Bear to a human life. My love affair with my Ted has endured from toddler to Senior Citizen, so you could assume bias - and be absolutely correct! However, if you will carefully peruse the ensuing list, you may be amazed to learn the heights and depths some bears have mastered - with total equilibrium, and a great sense of style.

Here then, are some of the most significant heroes of the past 108 years (Yes...seriously, that is truly how short the history of these magnificent creatures is!)

* 1903 Amy Johnson - aviatrix (female pilot) was the first female to fly from Great Britain to Australia in her plane 'Jason' - with her unnamed Teddy Bear as a mascot. (Name your plane and not your bear?...well!)

* 1912 A Teddy Bear is reported to have survived the sinking of the passenger ship 'Titanic' on her maiden voyage from England to New York when 1517 human lives were lost.

* c.1919 (After World War I) There is a widely held belief that some Teddy Bears were sacrificed in parachute 'trials', so as to save the lives of humans. Later, unsubstantiated reports are that these would eventually become known as the 'Ted Devils'. And this in turn, would lead to them being used in charity fund-raising efforts. Being dropped from a height, using old umbrella canopies or similar lightweight material, with competitions based on descent times. One intrepid Teddy Bear was sighted recently actually sky-diving! He was seen to be holding very tightly to the hand of his human 'jumper'.

* 1900's Sir John Betjeman - English poet and author not only took his teddy bear and best friend, Archibald Ormsby-Gore to Oxford with him, he also dedicated a poem to him, and then used him as the model for the bear Aloysius portrayed in 1945, in his book 'Brideshead Revisited' (later adapted for film and TV). How fitting...how absolutely perfect - that when Sir John died in 1984, it was with Archibald in his arms.

* 1930's Shirley Temple, actress (film and TV), author and public servant, began her career at three years old, and is reputed to have had one of the biggest Teddy Bear collections in the world. Shirley would have undoubtedly agreed with a quote from Peter Gray -"In a world where everyone seems to be larger and louder than yourself, it is very comforting to have a small, quiet companion."

* 1940's Unknown numbers of undoubtedly significant Teddy Bears did NOT survive World War II bombings throughout Europe. And I do not know of a single Jewish Teddy Bear who survived the holocaust and the horrors of concentration camps. Perhaps someone has a different story to share?

* 1957 Elvis Presley - famous American singer and film star sang one of his most popular songs (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear - in the movie 'Loving You'. Elvis' best friend was a lady named Mabel (See later references to both Mabel and Elvis)

* 1964 Donald Campbell - British Speed Record-breaker - and unbeaten holder of both World Land and Water Speed records in the same year - was accompanied on his many attempts, including his triumphant 444 kph journey, by none other than his best friend, Mr. Whoppit. Tragically, they both died in 1967 at a speed of 478.9kph. Mercifully, it is said, they would not have had time to feel a thing.

* 1965 Walter Bonnati - Italian climber of renown - scaled the north face of the Matterhorn - one of the highest mountain in the Swiss Alps, with his Teddy Bear and best friend - Zissi - tucked snugly and safely in his backpack. Both survived to live on the tales of their adventures - maybe to this very day...but they would both be quite old now.

* 1980's On a personal note - once upon a time in a hospital not too far away (as I faced and then recovered from an operation), two deeply beloved Care Bears were brought to me by a small son and daughter - to "watch over me and keep me safe". And they did! (...and they never closed their eyes....not once!)

* 2006 A tragedy! Elvis Presley's best friend Mabel had gone to England to take part in a special show of significant best friends and toys of the rich and famous, when a guard dog apparently went berserk and damaged and destroyed a large number of the exhibits. Mabel did not survive.

* Some general observations - Teddy Bears have been seen at weddings - sitting in front pews on either side of the church; have been taken on honeymoons; have been taken by Kings and Princesses to occasions of State, and goodwill visits to faraway places. There are even some who have given their all for King and Country - courageously intercepting bullets intended for their loved ones. Then there is an endearing and enduring, rather famous bear in the Australian children's TV program 'Play School' (he was a leading light from the first episode in 1966) - and he is aptly named Big Ted, so as not to confuse him with Little Ted. An important note for 'globe-trotters' to remember is a rarely advertised fact that Teddy Bears can travel completely free on British Rail, The Indian Pacific - and almost all airlines. I cannot vouch for their full safety on 'Tiger' Airlines - sounds a little 'predatory'? Maybe someone has some first-hand experience on this question?

Can our gratitude to these loyal, loving and empathetic beings ever be overstated, when we weigh up their countless meaningful gifts of love to mankind? Clara Ortega says -

"When everyone else has let you down, there's always Ted."

© 2010 Christine Larsen - All Rights Reserved

Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt and the 'Teddy' Bear

Did you know, the most lovable and recognized childhood icon of the 20th century -- the teddy bear -- has a deep connection with none other than Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States? Want to find out more?

In November 1902, Theodore (or 'Teddy' as he was affectionately called by his intimate circle) Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, was staying in Mississippi. Roosevelt was there to help settle a border dispute between Mississippi and Louisiana. In the spare time that he had in between attending important political matters, Roosevelt was invited by Mississippi Governor Andrew H. Longino to participate in a bear hunt in Mississippi, apparently one of the favourite sporting activities of the region.

Several other hunters were competing in this bear hunt and many were already proudly displaying their recent kills. However, much to the disappointment of his hosts, the hunt did not yield a kill. Eager to remedy the situation and wanting to avoid the embarrassment of having their distinguished guest return empty-handed, his hosts came up with a 'plan'.

The hunting guide and the hunting dogs managed to run to earth an old and wounded adult American Black bear who in any case offered little resistance to his tame capture. The captured bear was then tethered to a post and the President was invited to take a shot at it and kill it. Needless to add, President Roosevelt was horrified and flatly refused to play along, deeming it unsportsmanlike. Instead, he ordered the old and ailing bear to be put out of its misery. But the matter was not destined to rest there...

The story spread and caught the imagination of a political cartoonist, Clifford Berryman, who drew a faithful representation of the scene as it might have been. The cartoon, 'Spare the Bear' appeared on 16 November 1902 in the Washington Post, showing the 26th US President refusing to shoot the tame target. That set the ball rolling and soon cartoons of helpless bear cubs began to appear in other newspapers as well.

Sniffing a lucrative opportunity in the sudden bear mania, an astute Brooklyn shopkeeper, Morris Michtom, decided to display two stuffed toy bears made by his wife in his shop window. He asked permission from President Theodore Roosevelt to call these toy bears 'Teddy's bears'. Permission was granted, and the rest, as they say, is history. His teddy bear toys flew off the shelves, prompting Michtom to establish the Ideal Novelty and Toy Co., which still exists today.

Little they Michtom realize that he was creating history, and introducing to the world an icon that would go on to mesmerize generations of young and old alike as the all-time favourite childhood soft toy.

It was not just America that fell instantly in love with this adorable bear. Across the continent, in Germany, a physically challenged German seamstress, Margarette Steiff created a plush toy teddy bear for her catalogue for the Steiff company. They exhibited the toy at the Leipzig Toy Fair in March 1903 and exported 3000 to the United States, little knowing that the teddy had already captured the imagination of that country.

From then on, there was no looking back. Teddy bears had come into our lives and were here to stay...
From its somewhat dubious origins, the teddy bear has come to represent all that is good and pure and innocent in the world. A mandatory prop in every nursery and a cute and lovable gift for one's sweetheart, the teddy bear continues to rule hearts and minds.

Recognizing a huge potential market for these teddy bear toys, other manufacturers joined in the bear mania by 1906, along with original players Michtom and Steiff. The craze for teddy bears had reached a crescendo with women carrying them wherever they went and children being inseparable from their teddies. President Roosevelt used a teddy bear as his mascot in his bid for re-election.

American educator Seymour Eaton came up with the children's book series 'The Roosevelt Bears', which became a huge success.

The original teddy bear, made in 1903, was handed over to the Smithsonian by President Theodore Roosevelt's grandson, Kermit. Teddy bear enthusiasts can see this most famous bears of all time in the National Museum of American History.

How to Choose the Perfect Teddy Bear For a Girl

Finding the right present for the women in your life isn't always easy. You can waste a lot of time searching aimlessly for the perfect gift, and there are almost too many options out there! In order to keep things simple, why not consider getting her a great classic gift? A teddy bear or other plush toy can be a really wonderful gift, or a great supplement to another gift. They are a great present for any woman, regardless of how well you know her. In fact, they can be personalized a great deal for those you are close to, or if you don't know someone's likes or dislikes, a plush toy can be a nice neutral gift that anyone can enjoy! And stuffed animals can be great for any age. Remember, overall a teddy bear or other plush toy is a great gift that will rarely go wrong.

Finding Stuffed Animals for Different Ages

Follow these simple rules to get the perfect plush toy for any age group. First, if you have to get a gift for a little girl in the 2 to 12 age range, keep things colorful and magical. For example, you could get her a unicorn or a Pegasus stuffed toy. Or alternatively, maybe you know that they really want a pet, like a dog or a cat, but their parents don't think they are ready for the responsibility yet. Get them a plush dog or plush cat as a substitute! If you have a teenager to get a stuffed toy for, get them something with some significance. For example, get them a stuffed tiger or lion to import courage or strength. This can be an especially great idea for a graduation, or some other milestone. Or maybe you have to get a gift for a lady that's 20 years old or above. Consider getting the great classic gift of a teddy bear! This can be an especially great idea if you want to get her some flowers or chocolate too. You can even have the teddy bear hold them! Or alternatively, get her a stuffed animal that can be decorative for her home or office. This can be anything, from a plush cat to a stuffed squirrel, as long as the toy is classical and natural looking.

Finding Stuffed Animals for Different Occasions

Always consider the occasion when you're getting someone a stuffed animal. This can include basics like getting an animal that's seasonally appropriate, such as a polar bear for the winter holidays or an eagle for Independence Day, but it can also include personalization. A stuffed animal appropriate to all seasons and occasions would be a teddy bear, but you can really make it special by personalizing the toy. Get the gift recipient's initial stitched on the teddy's paw or chest. Or if it's too difficult to personalize with the occasion, make the toy special by linking it to their passion instead. Here's some examples. Maybe she loves cats or dogs, so get her a plush set of them. Or maybe you know she's interested in exotic travel and wants to see a jungle some day. Get her a stuffed tiger or plush leopard. She'll be very pleased to realize how well you know her, and appreciate the cute way you've found to personify her passion.

Finding Stuffed Animals for Different Personalities

It's very important to find a stuffed animal that will speak to your lady's personality. For example, you may be considering the cute teddy bear with a bow tie, but maybe the woman in your life is a nature lover. She'd be much more likely to appreciate a stuffed bear that's realistic, natural, and based on one in the wild. Or maybe she's talkative and lively. That type of personality would probably appreciate a stuffed teddy that's as colorful as she is. Or, if you know a lady with a more reserved personality, get her a more classical teddy bear that's brown or white, or maybe a natural-looking plush cat. Or, if she's dynamic but serious, get her a plush horse or something else that would make a good decorative piece and be useful. Or, for the last example, maybe she's got a great sense of humor. Get her a fun stuffed monkey that she'd be sure to appreciate!

Stuffed animals are a great gift for women, because they are fun and easy to personalize, and nothing makes a woman happier than realizing that you've been paying attention! So remember, always get a plush toy for the women in your life by paying attention to their age, personality, and the occasion they are celebrating.