It’s a special day when it’s a day for a teddy bear picnic.
On Wednesday, the 3s and 4s from Children’s School found out just how special.
“You’re not going to be the only ones I’m reading to today,” said Miss Lynn Moschel as the kids settled onto their blanket — a red, yellow, green and blue parachute — on Bestor Plaza. “I want to read to your teddy bears and your dogs and your dolls, too. Can you put them in your laps so they can see the pictures?”
The kids brought their favorite stuffed animals from home in tow for storytime. On their laps, the kids situated plush puppies, stuffed teddies, soft alligators, pretty baby dolls and comfy caterpillars, and turned their attention to Miss Lynn, Children’s School’s librarian for nearly 20 years.
The first story she read to the kids and their stuffed friends was The Teddy Bears’ Picnic by Jimmy Kennedy.
“If you go out in the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise,” Miss Lynn read, because today’s the day that every bear there ever was will gather there for a picnic! “Beneath the trees, where nobody sees, they’ll hide and seek as long as they please. Today’s the day the teddy bears have their picnic.”
Once the teddy bears finished their picnic, it was time for the kids to get some exercise.
The second book that Miss Lynn read, after asking the kids to stand up and shake out their arms and shoulders, was Toddlerobics: Animal Fun by Zita Newcome.
Following along as Miss Lynn read, the kids waddled like penguins, swung their arms like monkeys, galloped like horses and hopped like bunnies, imitating all manner of animals, one after the other — and getting some physical activity at the same time.
At the end of their workout, and after the last page of Toddlerobics was read, the kids were sure to show their appreciation for Miss Lynn.
“Thank you!” they all cheered graciously.
Then it was time to have a picnic of their own.
Seated along the edges of the brick walk, the kids enjoyed a treat of jelly sandwiches and animal crackers — a befitting snack to refill their bellies after their workout.
With stuffed animals and dolls cradled under their arms as they ate in the morning sun, it was certainly a special day for the kids.
