Teddy bear hugs for the bairns at Papdale Nursery

The children of Papdale Nursery were sure of a big surprise recently with the gift of 94 knitted teddy bears!

Teddy bear picnics will be on the agenda in the weeks to come, according to Nursery Manager, Caroline Easton, who came up with the idea and got in touch with The Haven in Stonehaven, who made the generous donation.

Caroline explained that she has been conscious of the children finding the most recent lockdown more challenging and she wanted to think of ways to help.

Being interested in brain development research and positive mental wellbeing, Caroline was aware of the significant benefits that a simple hug can bring.

“When you hug someone, certain hormones are released giving you a greater sense of inner calm and belonging. I had read of the work of Julia Morton, founder of The Haven in Stonehaven – helping communities – and knitted teddies was just one aspect of that.

“Never more so during this pandemic have families been kept apart and the simple act of hugging has been restricted – some can’t cuddle their grandparents anymore – and it’s this contact that bairns are missing most. I just thought it would be a wonderful idea if each bairn at the nursery could have their own special knitted teddy to hug.”

Caroline made contact with Julia who was delighted to offer up 94 teddies free of charge, thanks to an army of generous knitters in and around Stonehaven, and they arrived in the county recently.

“We have had an amazing response from the parents and bairns who have received their teddy bears already – others will be handed out as bairns come in. They will definitely be well loved.”

Julia Morton is creator of Starsparks, and keeper of The Haven in Stonehaven: Wellbeing Space and The Haven Community Larder.

She said: “Thank you for your interest in our flourishing teddy population in Stonehaven. We are delighted to hear that the teddies have found a new life in Orkney and made new friends. Our intention is always to nurture and empower our own community spirit but if that sparks opportunities in other communities, we are always happy to support in any way we can.”

If there are any keen knitters in the county who would like to join the teddy bear effort the knitting pattern is available here - Stonehaven Trauma Teddies Website – with a case study of their teddy work here - Power of Teddies Webinar.