For thousands of years, people in South America have benefited from the soft, woolly fur of animals native to the Peruvian Andes. It wasn't until 1984 when importation rules were lifted that North America began enjoying these creatures that are part of the camel family. Lately, alpaca farms in the United States have been getting a lot of attention for breeding animals that produce luxurious fur used for clothing particularly in cold climates. Pop culture has embraced these animals and they are now showing up everywhere. Here are some of the cutest alpaca toys, stuffed animals, and gifts for kids who have fallen for the social, lovable llama lookalikes.
A petite, white fluffy friend measuring nine inches long toe-to-toe is just the right size for tiny tots. This sweet toy is filled with bean pellets, allowing it to lie on its belly without toppling over. The eyes are embedded in the material and there are no removable parts making this a safe choice for babies.
Alpaca Plush Animals
As rare as these animals are in the United States, with a population hanging around 100,000, these lovable creatures have captured the hearts of anyone who has had the opportunity to get to know them. Enterprising farmers recognize the value in the wool, preferred over the scratchy coat of a sheep, and have invested in breeding them for textile purposes. Many were pleasantly surprised by the social nature and ease with which to raise them. And they have found other ways to put them to work, by renting the animals out for therapeutic purposes to yoga retreats, colleges, and other animal-assisted stress relief programs. Reading to children about alpacas is an excellent way to teach them about this exotic livestock. And while snuggled up with a book, be sure to snag a soft alpaca plush animal to make the experience even more special.
Brown Plush Alpaca
A fuzzy animal standing over a foot tall will bring lots of love to a child. An expressive face and oversized padded feet are just a couple of the special touches. A high quality toy by The Petting Zoo is made from recycled water bottles. Not only is real alpaca wool a sustainable product, this plush animal was made from a company putting earth-friendly practices in action.
Alpaca Slumberkins With Books
A fantastic gift option for kids who have a case of the worries. Developed by a child therapist, this minky-haired alpaca is a comforting companion. The set comes with two books that help children articulate their stressful feelings. This is just one of an award-winning line of plush and book sets addressing a variety of emotional issues.
Two-Tone Alpaca Plush Toy
An attractive stuffed alpaca made by Eco Nation, a company dedicated to manufacturing eco-friendly toys from recycled materials. A super-soft coat with features sewn into the face make this a safe option for babies and toddlers. Reviews from happy customers indicate they are pleased with the quality and snuggle factor.
Alpaca Plush Wearing Pajamas
This little animal pal is all tuckered out after a day of play. Sleepy toddlers will find comfort laying down with a tired alpaca in soft, cozy pajamas. The plush measures fifteen inches long and doubles as a soft pillow for tiny tots ready for a nap.
Squishmallow Alpaca
A neon green Sqishmallow named Cavaleri is probably the cutest, most original version of this plush animal around. Easily identified by the fringe facial hair with tiny ears poking through, this huggable plush is simply adorable. Perfect for collectors of Squishmallows or anyone who just wants a soft snuggle pal.
Soft White Plush Alpaca
This fluffy plush animal is ready to deliver lots of love and snuggles. Kids will love the generous size- 18 inches long- when they wrap their arms around a new best stuffy. Super soft white fur and a smiling face will add a bright touch to a little one's day. Suited for kids 3 years and up.
Alpaca Gift Ideas For Kids
Kids are obsessed with these endearing animals that are showing up everywhere these days. Their wool has been enjoyed by adults for years due to the soft, warm qualities it brings to sweaters, blankets, socks, scarves, and other cold weather clothing. But a new appreciation for the animal itself is growing, as kids fall in love with the quirky looks and funny personalities. Here are some unique alpaca gifts for children who adore these creatures. For more ideas featuring farm animals, check out some cute pig gifts, too!
Alpaca Figurines
The Farm World Series from Schleich, a company that makes the highest quality animal toys, would not be complete with this alpaca set of three little figures. These miniatures make cute gifts by themselves, but are especially fun when incorporated into larger modular play sets by the same company. Each one stands from 5 to 7 inches tall.
Alpaca Body Pillow
Just what kids need after a long day of play. This soft body pillow in the shape of an alpaca measures 51 inches long. It is just the right size for tiny tykes who want to snuggle, and is big enough for larger kids, too! This snuggle buddy is there to serve as a head rest or to provide leg support for side sleepers.
Alpaca Tent
FA child's bedroom will spring to life with the addition of an alpaca tent that doubles as an indoor play space. Made of safe, polyester fabric and measuring 47" x 47" x 43", this fun tent brings outdoor scenes of alpacas grazing in the fields right into the home. This useful tent can also be used outside for an overnight adventure in the back yard.
Playmobil Alpaca Farm Set
A fantastic toy made from sustainable materials stimulates hours of imaginary play. This excellent set can be expanded with other Playmobil toys where characters and animals can be interchanged. Kids will have fun manipulating the three alpacas around the farm, using the characters to attach leashes to lead them to their food or grassy areas.
Alpaca Canvas
No wall art oozes love like this heart-covered alpaca canvas. This whimsical piece is stretched over a sturdy wood fame and is designed for easy hanging. The best part is that it comes in a variety of different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your child's wall space perfectly.
Hackin' Packin' Alpaca Game
This little game is so much fun to play. The rules are simple. The pieces are divided among 2 to 4 players. Each one takes a turn at balancing their piece on top of the alpaca's back. But here's the twist- a timer is set and the animal gets very angry if the task isn't completed. In fact, anger rages causing the woolly fellow to spit and shake off the pieces already piled on top!
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