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Top 5 Stuffed Animals For A Newborn

Top 5 Stuffed Animals For A NewbornAre you awaiting the birth of a newborn for yourself, friend or family member and want to find the perfect stuffed animal to accentuate the crib or just have something to remember you by?

We have compiled a list of the top 5 stuffed animals that we feel would be great to give as a gift:

Baby Icicle Snowman – if the baby is due in the upcoming winter or Christmas season, this snowman can be the perfect gift to go along with the season. It is a cute 8-inch doll that comes accessorized with a hat, scarf and, of course, a carrot nose.

Baby Cream Bunny – there is nothing more adorable than a bunny, well except a new baby of course! This baby cream bunny is the perfect size at 8 inches tall. This bunny will be a great toy for the newborn to give plenty of hugs to for the next few years.

Baby Billy Teddy Bear – what child, or even adult, doesn’t remember the teddy bear that they got as a baby that scared away the monsters or listened to their funny stories during playtime? Make this teddy bear the one that is remembered and cherished for many years to come.

Baby Goldie Golden Retriever – this puppy dog stuffed animal will appeal to anyone or any family that are dog lovers. Goldie is 8 inches tall and can be there right aside the new baby for all of his/her first’s in life.

Baby Glitter the Pink Horse – if there is a precious little girl on the way; Glitter will be a cute gift to give at a shower or to bring to the hospital during your first visit. This gift from you will be treasured for many years to come by the new baby on the way.

The gift of a stuffed animal is a classic present that will be cherished and remembered for years to come.

Find the perfect gift to welcome the newborn in your life with at The Zoo Factory by browsing our selection now. Contact us today!

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Order Custom Print T-Shirts for Your Stuffed Animals

Custom Printed Stuffed Animal T-Shirt

Whether you are looking for a fun way to say happy birthday or a creative advertising idea for your company, The Zoo Factory has an exciting new solution. We are now offering 16” custom printed t-shirt for your stuffed animals. From logos to company mottos and quotes, the options are endless and there are plenty of ways to incorporate these shirts into your next event!

Say “Happy Birthday”

If your child and their friends will be stuffing animals at the birthday party, why not give each animal a fun and memorable shirt to wear? With birthday message and an image to match the theme of the event, these shirts will remind the kids of the great memories they made in the year to come.

Number Your Tables

As you are planning your next big corporate event, you are probably looking for a unique way to decorate while promoting your brand. Stuffed animals adorned in company t-shirts are the perfect way to do so! Depending on the size of your event, one great place to put them is at the center of each table. Holding table numbers, these adorable stuffed friends are sure to steal the show. You can even draw names at the end of the evening to choose who gets to take each fluffy friend home.

Add to Gift Baskets

For schools and non-profit groups planning fundraisers, family-friendly gift baskets are the perfect place to spread awareness with custom printed stuffed animal shirts. Printed with your group’s logo or motto these adorable shirts are sure to have everyone buying tickets for a chance to win!

Price for custom printed t-shirts are based on set up fees, the number of shirts purchased and the number of colors in the design. Shirts require a one month lead time to create, so call 866-993-3325 today for your quote.

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The Evolution of Stuffed Animals

vintage teddy bear

At the Zoo Factory, it’s no surprise that we love stuffed animals. We think they’re great for people of all ages as a safe, healthy, and fun toy that everyone can enjoy. And clearly, we’re not alone: stuffed animals have been loved by people for centuries.

Let’s take a trip in time to see where stuffed animals came from, and how people came to love them in the first place.

The Early Stuffed Animal The Evolution of Stuffed Animals

Did you know that civilizations around the world have been making some form of a stuffed animal since the beginning of recorded history? Actually, it was the Romans in as early as 300 BC who are first credited with creating the rag doll, which were made with fabric scraps and filled with straw. These were mostly enjoyed by poorer children, who were unable to afford the pricier toys of the day.

The Modern Stuffed Animal

There are really two instances where the stuffed animals that we know came about. The first is the stuffed elephant created by Margarete Steiff in 1880, who first produced the toy based on a pattern she read in a magazine. She eventually started manufacturing thousands of these elephants, and Steiff’s company became one of the most popular in the world.

The other is the most famous: the world-famous “Teddy Bear.” In 1902, toymaker Morris Michtom saw a cartoon in the Washington Post about how President “Teddy” Roosevelt had spared the life of a bear cub when out hunting one day. The story inspired him to make a toy replica of the bear cub, and he ended up calling it a “teddy bear.” Of course, Michtom’s toy shot to international fame, and Ideal Toy Company, Michtom’s company, soon was the biggest toy manufacturer in the country.

Of course, stuffed animals have gone on to take a number of different forms, and appear in popular culture all over the world. But that history lends itself to their original creativity, and beloved comfort.

At the Zoo Factory, we pride ourselves on continuing that history with the best selection of stuffed animals out there. If you have any questions about our selection, contact us today!

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How to Help Your Child Overcome Their Fear of Shots

child receiving vaccine from doctor with family beside her

As of this blog post, the FDA is on the brink of approving the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. And for the past several months, children over the age of 12 years old have been receiving the vaccine. We all understand the importance of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as other vaccines, in order to safeguard our public health. Nevertheless, if you have a child with a fear of shots, getting them to sit down for a vaccine can be easier said than done.

But don’t give up just yet. By taking the right steps, you can help your child ease their fear of shots and get vaccinated like everyone else!

Educate them about vaccines

The less people know about something, the more they fear it. Kids are no different. If you educate your children about how vaccines work, they’ll be less frightened once the time comes to get one. Keep your explanation simple and emphasize that vaccines are here to protect us, not harm us.

Practice beforehand

Another way to lessen your child’s anxiety is to practice getting a shot beforehand. Purchase a toy medical kit and have one person play the doctor and the other play the patient. You can even use one of your child’s stuffed animals to play the role of the patient.

Be an example

Our children model their behavior off of ours. Even if you’re a little nervous about shots, try to exhibit a sense of calm when it’s time for your child’s appointment. You can also try bringing your child with you when it’s time for you to get a shot yourself. While many adults have already received the COVID-19 vaccine, now is the best time to get your flu shot!

Bring a comfort item

When the big day comes, it’s normal for your child to get a little nervous. To help manage their anxiety, consider having them bring a comfort item with them. This could be their favorite blankie, toy, stuffed animal, etc.

The Zoo Factory has plenty of lovable, stuffed animals that can help ease your child’s anxieties. Look through our website to find their next best friend today!

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4 Ways to Keep Your Kids Healthy Throughout the School Year

4 Ways to Keep Your Kids Healthy Throughout the School Year

We always want to keep our kids healthy throughout the school year, but with the coronavirus, it has become more important now than ever before. Schools have always been a prime place for children to pick up germs and illnesses, so it’s necessary to take extra precautions before your kids get onto the school bus. Here are a few ways to get started:

Keep them up to date on their vaccines

While the coronavirus is still a major concern, that doesn’t mean you should forget about the other infectious disease that your child could come into contact with. During the early fall months, take your child to their pediatrician to get them up to date on their vaccines, including their annual flu shot.

Make sure they wear their mask

For most school districts, wearing a mask is required when attending class. If you have younger children, make sure they understand the importance of wearing their masks throughout the day. Additionally, give your child two masks to hold onto just in case they lose the one they’re wearing.

Teach them proper hand washing techniques

Regularly washing your hands is just as important as wearing a mask. When your kids head off to school, they should go knowing how to properly wash their hands. You can follow the CDC’s guidelines for how and when to wash your hands here.

Keep an eye on their stress levels

During such stressful times, it can be easy for our kids to feel overly anxious. Not only does this compromise their mental health, but it can compromise their physical health as well. Indeed, anxiety and stress can actually weaken our immune system, leaving us more susceptible to diseases. Keep an eye out for common signs of stress to make sure your kids don’t get too anxious throughout the school year.

Here at The Zoo Factory, we want to make sure every child has a safe and healthy school year. For more tips, read more posts from our blog!

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How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health

father playing with children

As caregivers, we want the best for our kids. We support their academic careers, their ambitions, and their physical health. However, we also need to support their mental health. We live in stressful times, and supporting our children’s mental health is of the utmost importance. Here’s how to get started:

Praise their character

While our children’s accomplishments are important, they’re not the only thing that is important. Their character—how they behave and present themselves—truly shows what kind of person they are. Praising your child’s character will help them build self-confidence and instill good habits.

Don’t hold back your love

We love our kids, but sometimes we struggle to show it during our busy lives. However, showing unconditional love regularly will remind kids that they are cared for and loved. Even if your child makes mistakes, they’ll know they have a family there to love and support them.

Spend quality time together

While our daily lives are busy, it’s important to spend some quality time with our children. Not only does this show them we care, but it can also decrease isolation and loneliness. And it doesn’t haven’t to be a fancy affair. Watch TV with them, take a walk, or help them with their homework.

Have open communication

Your children should feel comfortable to talk to you about anything. Show your child that you’re open to anything by asking them open-ended questions. They may not always answer them, but simply asking the questions will teach them that they can come to you with anything once they feel comfortable.

For more parenting tips and tricks, read through our blog here at The Zoo Factory!

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Crafty Halloween: DIY Decorations Your Kids Will Love Making

Above view many different Halloween pumpkins made of felt or paper placed on wooden surface. Handmade halloween style bookmarks.

October is synonymous with the excitement of Halloween – a time where creativity comes to life, quite literally. Ghosts, goblins, witches, and their mystical companions adorn neighborhoods, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about handcrafted decorations. Engaging children in DIY Halloween crafts not only fosters creativity but also builds anticipation for the spookiest night of the year. Below are some whimsical, kid-friendly decoration ideas to make your home the talk of the town.

1. Ghostly Lanterns

Materials Needed: Old jars, white paint, black marker, and a tea light.

Instructions: Have your kids paint the outside of the jars with white paint. Once dried, draw ghostly faces using a black marker. Insert a tea light, and voila, you have a collection of eerie yet adorable ghost lanterns to light up the spooky night.

2. Pumpkin Painting

Materials Needed: Pumpkins and colorful paints.

Instructions: Carving can be a bit complex and messy for younger children. Instead, lay out a plethora of paint options and let your kids’ imaginations run wild. Monsters, witches, or even their favorite superheroes can come to life on the pumpkins!

3. Spider Sacks

Materials Needed: White yarn, small plastic spiders, and balloons.

Instructions: Wrap the yarn around inflated balloons, creating a web-like effect. Insert small plastic spiders in between the spaces. Once dry, pop the balloon, and you have a creepy-crawly spider sack to hang around the house.

Conclusion: Making Memories

These craft ideas are not just about adorning your home with Halloween decor but also about the experience and memories created during the process. Children’s pride in their creations and the joy of witnessing their artistry displayed fosters a sense of accomplishment and excitement.

While your kids are diving into their artistic pursuits, why not add an extra touch of magic with cuddly friends from The Zoo Factory? Our stuffed animals can be the cozy companions your children need during their creative escapades. Each critter is waiting to be brought to life with imagination, making the Halloween experience even more memorable. Discover our enchanting collection today, and let’s make this Halloween a fusion of spooky and snuggly!

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Tips on Repairing Your Childs Stuffed Animal

man sewing back together his stuffed teddy bear

Our children’s stuffed animals go through a lot. They’ve been squished inside a suitcase, dropped in a mud puddle, slept on during the night, and much more. While stuffed animals are hardy creatures, there will come a time when their stitches and seams begin to weaken or break altogether. While some injuries are beyond repair, there are a few ways for you to get your child’s stuffed animal back to normal again!

Inspect the Damage

Begin by inspecting the damaged part of the animal. Consider whether this is a simple fix you can do at home or one that will require help. Small tears and loose seams are usually straightforward repairs, while more significant damage might require more advanced techniques or professional help.

Match the Thread Colors, Material, and Size

If you can do the repair work yourself, be sure to match appropriate thread colors, material, and size. By using the right tools, you can replicate the original work, which will help maintain the integrity of the stuffed animal. Of course, to your child, just being able to hold their friend again might be all that matters, so to each their own when it comes to how perfect you want to make the repairs.

Replace the Stuffing

If the stuffed animal has lost any stuffing due to tearing, replace it with a similar filling. This will help the animal regain its original shape and keep the fabric in place. Even if no stuffing has been lost, if the well-loved stuffed animal is showing signs of stuffing shifting, try to reposition it before you start stitching or mending.

Taking the time to repair and maintain your child’s stuffed animal can extend its life and keep it looking great for years to come. If you find that your child’s favorite companion is beyond repair, or if you want to add a new friend to their collection, visit The Zoo Factory online. Explore our wide selection of stuffable animals, extra stuffing, and accessories to find the perfect companion for your child’s next adventure.

Place your order online today, or fill out our contact form for more information or questions about our stuffable furry friends!

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Adding A Wonderful Scent To Your Child’s Stuffed Animal

Adding A Wonderful Scent To Your Child's Stuffed AnimalOne of the strongest senses the human body experiences is the sense of smell. Scents play a key role in our mental and emotional well-being. Most people have a favorite scent that brings them peace, and a feeling of calm and happiness. This occurs most often with children.

Whether it is a parent’s scent, the smell of the laundry detergent or food, children relate happiness and memories to a special scent. Scents and significant items are particularly important in the life of a child. Think back to your own childhood and we can imagine that at one point, there was a stuffed animal or doll that was a favorite. As a small child, stuffed animals and their unique scent are very comforting.

When you combine the two, a stuffed animal and inviting scent, you have a wonderful combination in a product that is sure to be loved by any little human being.

The world of creating a stuffed animal friend is a popular activity for our youngest generation. They love the idea that their buddy has been hand-picked and stuffed just for them. You can now take the special process one step further by placing a scent in the middle of the stuffing within the animal for a long-lasting smell.

Aromabearapy has a full line of adorable paw-inspired scent chips to be placed within stuffed animals. All you have to do is add the scent chip in the middle of the tummy inside of the stuffing. After a few minutes, tell your little one to hug their friend tightly and a wonderful smell will erupt from the animal. The smell is not over-powering.  Some of the scents include baby powder, bubble gum, apple, cotton candy, strawberry, and more.

For a full list and description of the available Aromabearapy scent chips, feel free to browse our website. For more information, contact us today!

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Finding Accessories For Your Child’s Stuffed Animal

Finding Accessories For Your Child's Stuffed AnimalThere are a variety of child friendly toys that can become a treasured item in their life. However, nothing can really compare to the love given to a stuffed animal. Stuffed animals are a little one’s first best friend and companion that travel to and fro wherever they go.

Stuffed animals bring much comfort in times of need in a child’s life such as birthdays, illnesses, first school experience, and also for those just because moments.

What else that is so great about a stuffed animal is that there are no batteries required, there is little to no maintenance expect for an occasional washing, and they are the perfect way to give and get a comforting squeeze.

When stuffed animals first became popular decades ago, it was typically a brown, black or white teddy bear. This teddy bear would be fuzzy and cute and very simple. Nowadays, stuffed animals can be accessorized to the fullest, making playing with them so much more fun.

Your little one will certainly have a delightful time dressing up and accessorizing their stuffed friend. Some examples of accessories include outfits, shoes, hats, jewelry, back packs, bathing items, swimwear, and sunglasses.

Two very adorable accessories available for stuffed animals are the sleeping bags and Little Secret Hearts.

As a companion for sleepovers, the sleeping bag is perfect. Fitting a large stuffed animal, the sleeping bag is so much fun for little ones to play pretend sleepover with their best furry friend. When going on vacation or when having to be away, your child’s stuffed animal’s sleeping bag brings much comfort and entertainment.

Little Secret Hearts are 16 inches and have an elastic band that wraps around the stuffed animal and also has a little storage compartment. Closing with Velcro, your little one’s animal can hold or hug their little secrets! Each Little Secret Heart has a sweet message embroidered on the front, making it much more significant.

For a look at these stuffed animal accessories, feel free to browse through our website. The Zoo Factory has a wonderful collection of accessories that will be perfect, contact us for more information today.