A Teddy Bear Picnic Day at Preschool

Back in May of 2011, I dropped in on my kid's preschool class for what appeared to be their annual Teddy Bear Picnic day. The classroom was buzzing, brightly lit by the overhead fluorescents and a big window. The kids were all assembled for the requisite group photo, each one clutching their chosen stuffed companion for the day—a mix of classic bears, a Pikachu, and even a plush car.

It’s a familiar scene for any parent: the organized chaos of trying to get two dozen kids to look in the same direction at once. The room itself was a classic preschool environment, with pale green walls and simple, painted landscapes on the cabinets. It was one of those small, specific moments you show up for as a parent.

Later on, things were a bit quieter. I spent some time just holding my youngest, who seemed completely absorbed by something just out of frame. A moment of calm after the energy of a classroom full of kids and their stuffed animals.