Parents at one Liverpool school are concerned after a 'Huggy Wuggy' toy was brought in by one of the children.
The Huggy Wuggy character from TikTok and YouTube sings disturbing songs about killing. The clips are getting through social media safety barriers due to their titles but the reality of their content is very distressing.
The character is armed with sharp teeth and sings songs about hugging and killing and children across the country are reportedly acting out the character's actions in the playground.
READ MORE: Police warn parents about 'Huggy Wuggy' bear TikTok videos
Parents whose children attend Sudley Infant School in Aigburth have expressed concern after hearing their young children had seen the character which had "frightened" them as they "cannot understand it isn't real".
A Sudley Infants School spokesperson confirmed a Huggy Wuggy toy was brought into school by a child to show to classmates last week. Staff were "unaware of its significance" until concerns were raised.
The school spokesperson added: "Following an investigation on Thursday, a detailed newsletter was sent to all parents and carers with advice and guidance. In addition, pupils have been told not to talk about or play games related to the character."
Across the UK, Police forces have even issued warnings to parents, while schools have also stepped in to issue advice to mums and dads. Sudley Infant School issued a safeguarding newsletter to parents earlier this month, informing parents they had been made aware of the online viewing.
It read: "The unassuming title of the game can be confusing for parents and children. A number of children in each year group have mentioned this unsuitable game and the concerning Huggy Wuggy character who sings songs about hugging and killing.
"A number of children have mentioned that they actually have the soft toy from the game. We have looked online and found that soft toys, books and dressing up outfits are all easily available to buy. Children in all classes have been spoken to about playing games or talking about Huggy Wuggy or Poppy."
The letter adds that when Poppy Playtime is searched with restrictions on, it brings up the same results as when restrictions are turned off. This is because of its friendly name meaning it is able to infiltrate firewalls and filters. A line in one Huggy Wuggy song reads: "I could hug you here forever, til you breathe your last breath together."
It adds: "My teeth sharp and ready, in my grasp, yeah they're deadly" while in another, the blue bear invites people to "lean in for a spine-breaking embrace".
The NW Regional Organised Crime Unit, covering Merseyside and Cheshire, also took to social media to warn parents. They said: "Beware of 'Huggy Wuggy' TikTok and YouTube craze. Huggy Wuggy is being viewed by children across the country the character is armed with sharp teeth and sings songs where the contents is very distressing. Keep an eye on what your children are viewing online."
