Bear with Us

For Thirty-Five Years, the JrK Teddy Bear Picnic has been a Pint-Sized Party

Each September, we host some wild animals out on the Lower School playground. Some roar. Some snuffle. Others simply sit still and look cute. What they all have in common is…they’re stuffed. And very, very loved. It’s the JrK Teddy Bear Picnic, a day in which our youngest students bring in their favorite stuffed animals and includes performances, awards, and some tasty treats.

“The tradition started in 1988, the year I started as well,” recalls Mr. Dick Snyder, who served as Head of School at Cabarrus Academy and Cannon School from 1988 – 2006. “Pattie Johnstone was the first JrK teacher and is responsible for the picnic.” Typically, leading up to the day, JrK students learn about different types of bears, then bring in their own stuffed “bear” (which can also be a beloved unicorn, dog, or even dragon) to celebrate their newfound knowledge. Families are invited to watch students perform classic songs such as “The Bear Went Over the Mountain,” and “Be Bop the Bear.” Following the concert, the Head of School bestows a unique award to each child’s stuffie, such as “Most Colorful” or “Funniest.”

“I remember bringing in a tiny dalmatian stuffed animal named Spot, and I was so proud after he received “The Cutest” award from Mr. Gossage,” recalls Aubrey Haas, now a senior. Fourteen years later, the memory is still strong. “The event was so special to me.”

“I have had the joy of attending nine Teddy Bear Picnics,” says Mrs. Rendi Powers, JrK teacher. “For me, the best and sweetest part of the Teddy Bear Picnic happens to be when the Head of School can play off the unique bear awards that come across very cute or funny, and it drives a laugh from the parents.”

After each award is presented, families gather for a picnic lunch, thoughtfully prepared by parents. Treats have included honey cupcakes, Teddy Graham snacks, and bear-shaped sandwiches. There’s time afterward to gather and memorialize the moment with photos.

Many might be surprised to learn that we’ve been hosting the Teddy Bear Picnic for three and a half decades, but not Mr. Snyder. “I believe that traditions are the foundation of any organization, particularly for schools. The Teddy Bear Picnic gave the opportunity for every student to feel special because their teddy bear was special and was awarded a ribbon to recognize its uniqueness. My fondest memory was the smile on the face of each student as I presented the award and announced its special characteristics.”