Hug-a-Lumps Comforting Companions Now Available in South Africa
Next big plush trend to hit SA
ZURU has launched its latest plush toy, Hug-a-Lumps in South Africa, in the form of eight adorable weighted plush characters weighing 1.5 kilograms each with a super soft velour plush. Combining the comfort of a weighted blanket with the emotional connection of a soft toy, each Hug-a-Lump plush toy is designed to ease anxiety, help to calm and promote relaxation.
There are eight cute characters available in the range complete with tactile features for added sensory benefits. "We're excited to bring the next big plush trend to South Africa, inspired by heightened awareness around childhood anxiety and neurodiverse conditions," says Glenn Ambrose, Country Manager at ZURU.
"Hug-a-Lumps are not targeted solely at kids; globally we are seeing a real demand amongst all ages looking for a quality, weighted plush toy at an affordable price point," he explains. "Our latest insights are showing a significant benefit for teens during exams, and even helping adults with concentration during the workday."
Suitable for ages 3+, the Hug-A-Lumps character collection includes Dino, Duck, Pug, Kitten, Crocodile, Sloth, Goose and Bunny.
"Weighted plush popularity has soared globally and is fast climbing to the same levels as weighted blankets due to several reasons but mainly because there has been extensive research on the benefits," he explains. "The Hug-a-Lumps large plushies provide an not only provide emotional support of a plush with the calming effect of a big hug but are also cute, super soft and a lot of fun to play with."
"The Hug-a-Lumps weighted plush alleviates stress and anxiety while stimulating relaxation, provides emotional support, reduces cortisol with an increase in dopamine and aids in focus and concentration," he says. "In addition, the Hug-a-Lumps soft, comforting companions offer more than a cuddly presence, they can also be a powerful ally in helping children navigate the complexities of their emotions."
He adds that in today's fast-paced world and exposure to new challenges, plush toys have been proven to help alleviate anxiety.
Ambrose says that weighted plush toys can help with anxiety as the gentle pressure provided by the heaviness of these toys offers a calming effect, like the sensation of being hugged or swaddled. "This pressure has been reported to promote relaxation and feelings of anxiety or stress," he added.
In addition, he adds that weighted plush toys can assist in regulating sensory experiences, providing a calming effect that soothes the nervous system and these 'toys' have the added benefit to aid in better sleep by triggering deep touch pressure.
"Recent studies have shown that when a child hugs their plush toy, they experience the same sensation as hugging a parent; these hugs release dopamine and serotonin which in turn releases oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and stress relief," he explains. "These self-soothing techniques provide a physiological response that aids in a child feeling calmer and more secure."
"Weighted toys leverage the principles of deep pressure therapy, a technique that has been found to have calming effects on the nervous system, stimulating calm and relaxation and have the added benefit to aid in better sleep by triggering deep touch pressure," he concludes.
The range is now available at leading toy retailers at a RSP of R649 for more information visit: www.zuru.com.
About ZURU
ZURU is a global leader in the toy industry, known for its innovative and high-quality products. With a commitment to creativity, sustainability, and social responsibility, ZURU continues to revolutionise the way children play and learn.
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