At Cresthaven Academy, every scholar is given their own teddy bear during their first few weeks of kindergarten. Based on research conducted by Lesley Koplow of Bank Street College, we use teddy bears as transitional objects, as self objects, and as vehicles for grounding our social-emotional curriculum which addresses complex developmental issues within the classroom. Studies have shown that integrating bears into classroom learning decreases stress and anxiety, helps scholars feel connected to the learning community, and gives children a voice for fears, worries, or conflicts that sometimes underlie inattentive or off task behavior.

Plus they’re really, really cute.