Anima Soft Toys — naturally designed, versatile in use
Groupe Anima is based in Hipsheim, Alsace, where it develops plush animals modelled on real species. Since the 1960s, the family business has combined French design expertise with hand-crafted production in the Philippines, where the toys are made in collaboration with Hansa Creation. The aim is clear: each soft toy should represent the real animal closely enough for children and adults to recognise it at first glance.
Why natural design matters
Many plush toys rely on oversized eyes and rounded forms that have little in common with the actual animal. Anima takes a different approach. Proportions are accurate, the fur matches the species, and the faces show a calm, lifelike expression. A wolf actually looks like a wolf, not a cartoon character. This makes the animals particularly suitable for situations where a realistic impression counts — in lessons, in therapy or as a display piece in a doctor's surgery.
In nurseries and schools
Anima soft toys fit well into nature lessons or circle time. When children can hold an animal in their hands, they grasp features such as fur texture, body shape and relative size more quickly than from a picture. A project on woodland animals gains clarity when fox, badger and squirrel sit on the table as tangible figures. The animals also bring energy to storytelling sessions and role play.
In therapy and elderly care
Occupational therapists, speech therapists and dementia care professionals use plush animals as targeted communication aids. A soft, realistically designed animal lowers barriers: children with delayed speech development often speak more freely when a soft toy acts as their counterpart. In elderly care, familiar animals such as cats, dogs or rabbits can trigger memories — of former pets, walks or time in the garden. The soft surface also provides tactile stimulation that can have a calming effect.
Materials and the environment
Anima fills its soft toys with fibres made from recycled plastic. The outer shell consists of synthetic furs that vary by collection in colour, length and density. All materials undergo laboratory testing and comply with the European EN 71 toy safety standard. The CE mark on each animal confirms adherence to EU safety directives.
Different lines for different needs
The main collection covers animals from around the world — from the farmyard cow to the savannah lion. For babies and toddlers, the Animadoo line offers extra-soft fabrics and rounded shapes. The Têtabizous range provides small, compact animals that fit well into small hands and work as thoughtful little gifts.
Care
Surface cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is sufficient. Once dry, brush the fur gently. Machine washing should be avoided, as the toy's shape and fur texture are sensitive to it.