# Mask-Wearing Plush Toys Wild Republic Mask Buddies Help Kids Practice Wearing a Mak By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2020-09-25 | Life-Stages Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wild-republic-mask-buddies References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wild-republic-introduces-new-nature-themed-plush-products-perfectly-suited-to-help-soothe-todays-anxious-children-301137325.html) & [WildRepublic](http://www.WildRepublic.com/) This year, young kids have had to adapt to wearing masks and to help with the adjustment, there are Wild Republic Mask Buddies. Wild Republic, a creator of nature-related toys, recognizes that kids need a sense of calm and comfort as they navigate these new habits and routines, and its own [nature-inspired plush toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urupochachan) help to provide a sense of familiarity and friendship. At a time when kids are feeling isolated from social distancing and virtual learning, the Wild Republic Mask Buddies help to ease [childhood anxiety and fears](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/repair-bear). The Wild Republic Mask Buddies help kids practice wearing a matching mask with an animal friend. In all, there are seven animal friends for kids, including plush bears and giraffes. Image Credit: Wild Republic ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 76% | Activity: 70% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Alpha - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Life-Stages](https://www.trendhunter.com/life-stages) > [Youth](https://www.trendhunter.com/youth) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Mask-wearing Plush Toys:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating interactive and educational plush toys that encourage healthy habits, like mask-wearing, in young children. - **Childhood Anxiety Relief:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing technologies or products that provide comfort and familiarity to children, helping to alleviate anxiety caused by social distancing and virtual learning. - **Nature-inspired Toys:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Designing nature-themed toys that promote a sense of calm and connection to nature for children, contributing to their overall well-being. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Toy Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating innovative features and functionality into plush toys that not only entertain but also serve educational or therapeutic purposes. - **Childcare and Education:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating online platforms or tools that support social-emotional learning and address the mental health needs of children in a remote learning environment. - **Children's Apparel:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introducing fashionable and child-friendly face masks that integrate seamlessly with clothing and accessories, making mask-wearing more enjoyable for kids. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sensory Plush Accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mooshmoosh.md) - [Anxiety Soothing Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hugimals-antianxiety-plushie.md) - [Anxiety Relief Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/worry-monster.md) - [Weighted Plush Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hugarounds.md) - [Furry Fidget Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/furry-fidget-friends.md) - [Emotional Exploration Plushes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/emotional-baggage-by-solobo-toys.md) - [Emotional Support Plushies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/emotional-support-plushies.md) - [Warming Weighted Plushies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heartwarming-hugs.md) - [Multi-Sensory Play Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/meditate.md)