How old is too old for a comfort teddy?

[ZestyLemons]

7yo carries his crusty old teddy that he's had since birth with him everywhere. Has to be reminded not to take it out with him, at home it's permanently stuck under one arm and we are forever telling him to put it down (eg if asked to take something up to his bedroom he has to be reminded that teddy doesn't need to go with him/he'd be able to carry his cup of water without spilling it if he didn't have teddy lodged under his arm/doesn't need to be at the dinner table with him). It has been to school with him a few times and he's been laughed at by peers. Getting it in the wash is a battle.
He's a sensitive little boy. Wondering if this is normal.

I still have my Effalump (a blue, silky teddy bear with a red ribbon around his neck) and I'm 34! He's had emergency surgery on numerous occasions and has plenty of battle scars! I luffs him!

My DS (5) has a manky giraffe that he adores. I still remember him waddling around at the age of about 1, first thing in the morning with a full nappy and his Raff tucked under his arm...warms my heart whenever I think of it. He can keep it as long as he likes!

He also has a blanket that I crocheted for him a while back, if he goes on sleepovers at his GPs or Aunties, he takes Raff and the blanket...he says the blanket smells like me and he snuggles it so he doesn't miss me so much.

After lockdown I'd perhaps tell him "Teddy is going to live in your room now" . And stick to that. He can still have Teddy, just not all the time.

I have a friend who is 70 and still has her Teddy, so no it's not unusual to have one. Just not "all the time and everywhere".

OP I can see your concerns, and understand them. I was very attached to my first cuddly toy, but taking it to school everyday could be an issue. Not just bullying but failing to bond with other children. Could you not convince DS to leave toy at home to stand guard and protect the other toys whilst he is away (like toy story?). He will grow out of it