When I was younger, I was obsessed with stuffed animals. I had so many of them of different kinds, like different types of animals of different colors and sizes. I carried them everywhere with me. I brought them to school, like when it was “bring-your-stuffed-animal-to-school day” or something along those lines. I brought them on road trips too, and I would spend time really picking which ones to bring with me.

I used to play with stuffed animals with my brother. We would make crazy stories and make the plushies do crazy things. It was always so much fun, screaming and laughing as we gave each of our plushies specific voices and roles.

But one of the most important parts? They made me feel safe in bed. I hated sleeping by myself in my dark room. I had all my plushies in my bed to keep me company and I would always feel so happy and calm with them. I loved hugging them super tightly and holding them close to me whenever I felt scared.

And guess what? I still continue to do so, with no shame. I have a sea of plushies on my bed, from big to small. I still love going into stores in the mall and looking at all the cute plushies.

They make me feel so happy and calm. When I’m feeling down or I just need to have a good cry, I grab my nearest one and hug it tightly. The soft and squishy cotton and fluffiness of them make me feel so much better, not to mention the adorable designs of them as well.

Some young children stop having stuffed animals around 9-10 years old, according to Quora. It also explains how some children keep having them until they are around their teen years. 

Kids may decide to grow out of stuffed animals, but does that mean you should stop owning stuffed animals altogether? Should all teens stop having them?

You’re never too old to have them. It’s completely okay to still have many plushies at whatever age. The sole purpose of stuffed animals is to give children a sense of tranquility and happiness. Stuffed animals can’t just be for small children when this is the case.

If having stuffed animals in your home makes you happy and makes you feel safe, then go for it. No one should have to tell you otherwise. Don’t feel shame for flooding your bedroom with them or simply having one to help you feel better or to cry into.

I’m going to continue having stuffed animals for a long time. Even when I move out, I’ll be decorating my house with them beyond belief without any sort of care in the world. They make me happy and comfy, and there’s nothing wrong with feeling that way when having them. Have as many stuffed animals as you want, no matter what age you are at.