Not too hot, not too cold: After last year’s event was forced indoors due to the weather, it was a beautiful day at Central Park for kids of all ages to enjoy the Teddy Bear Clinic. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

health and happiness

Teddy Bear Clinic brings community together to benefit youth

Jun 7, 2019 | 5:01 PM

Although cloudy skies loomed overhead at points throughout the day Friday, it was all smiles as the sun did make an appearance, and stick around for a bit at the 20^th annual Teddy Bear Clinic in North Battleford.

Held at Central Park outside the public library kids from all over the Battlefords’ community gathered – along with their parents, teachers and teddy bears. They learned a little bit more about health and safety, while also having some fun doing arts and crafts, playing games, and enjoying a day in the park.

Over 40 agencies from the local area and as far as Regina and Saskatoon came out to take part in the day’s festivities.

To celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the event, the clinic also featured a petting farm, courtesy of Ol’ McDales Friendly Farm and Travelling Petting Zoo, offering kids an up-close look at several farm animals.

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Children from all around the Battlefords’ community brought their favourite stuffed animals to the park for a check-up Friday. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Executive Director with the Battlefords Early Childhood Intervention Program Colleen Sabraw organized the event.

Sabraw said the day promotes a sense of community and an encouragement for kids to have fun learning.

“We’re trying to really encourage people to get outside and play, read books, [and] explore the outdoors, she said. “I think it’s just really [about] believing in family and kids and the importance of coming together as a community.”

Program coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Battlefords, Renee Sperling, said the importance of an event like Friday’s should not be understated.

“It’s invaluable,” she said. “We always say it takes a community to raise a community, and this really fits that whole concept. Everybody’s in this together and we all want to gather around and love and support the youth in our community, right from the earliest stages to our oldest stages. It’s nice to be out here and be part of this event.”

Toree Lindsay, who attended the event with her son Wesley, said it was a great day.

“It’s been a great experience, great turnout. The weather’s been awesome, and there’s lots to do for the kids which is great to see,” she said.

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1