USO Sigonella Hosts First In-Person Teddy Bear Club in Months

Spring was in the air as well as laughter and excitement as USO Sigonella held their first in-person Teddy Bear Club since last Fall. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this program had been virtual for the last seven months, and the team was all very pleased to have been able to be back in person again after the long wait. While the anticipation was building for in-person fun, the little patrons have been growing up quickly, and some of the families multiplied in size as new Teddy Bear Club members were born. Designed for children aged five and under, and with COVID mitigation practices observed, parents and children participated in a morning of story time, crafts, and snacks - followed by a bubble dance party!

This month’s event was led by Program and Volunteer Coordinator Jaymi Schap, and as her last Teddy Bear Club with the Sigonella team, she made it an extra special one. Spring was the theme, so she read the classic, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. The children all gathered around as they learned about the caterpillar and its transformation into a beautiful butterfly. To go along with the story the children were then given marshmallows and paint so they could make their very own caterpillars and butterflies. After story time and the crafts, the “little creatures” of Teddy Bear Club got to enjoy a healthy snack followed by running through the grass field while bubbles were made by the wonderful volunteers – bubbles were definitely the highlight of the event! Unfortunately, the fun had to come to an end, but the participants were all given a special gift to take home to ensure the fun would continue all Spring and Summer long. They each received their very own butterfly or bee ‘Wing a Bubble’ wand so they could wave and make bubbles at home. In addition to their own hand-made craft and a bubble wand, these young Teddy Bear Club members and their parents are ending Spring 2021 with some wonderful, fun memories.