Soft toys can be a costly hobby for young kids, and I shudder to think how often I’ve forked out over £10 or £15 for some ‘must-have’ puppy or rabbit for Flea’s entertainment. So I think these Ikea soft toys are affordable, cute and have lots of play value. Thoroughly recommended.

This sweet little interactive stray play and train puppy came delivered in bright cheery packaging and certainly got the attention of the children straight away. The puppy comes with a clicker to start and change puppy functions. Puppy can sit up and beg, bark, stand or walk, and even eat treats. What made it it seem all the more appealing for my little ones is the fact that the puppy poops after eating his treat! What child wouldn’t love that function.

The Maileg Mouse in Matchbox is delightful, she (yes ours is called Matillda) comes in a matchbox, which is 11cm long and is where Matillda goes to sleep.

thought the Little Bird Told Me Bumble Bee Activity Toy was a nicely packaged, good sized soft toy suitable for a new born. It’s colorful but not too garish, in this day and age that makes a nice change. This is one of those toys that is classified age group 0+, but really only interests children up to the age of about 1. It has lots of features aimed at stimulating a baby, much better than your average cuddly toy!

On first sight I found this bear appealing and once I got my hands on him I could find little to disappoint. His fur is beautifully soft and very strokable, while the contrasting mittens and scarf are attractive to look at.

It’s a lovely looking toy, very soft and has a great little rattle inside. It comes in a presentation box and doesn’t have any unnecessary packaging. BG was initially drawn to the elephant but then got bored with it quickly.

If your child is a big fan of cuddly toys this will be a big hit. The price is steep but it is a way of introducing youngsters to the plight of endangered animals and explaining how you have helped with conservation by buying it. I do think I would struggle with the price, but having seen how she sits with it, trying desperately to get her arm around the huge thing, I can highly recommend it.

Another soft toy (sigh) I’ll add that to the toy mountain. This one will be easy to spot as its bright orange. The toddler sees it: cue ‘Big & Small’ shrieks of delight….