Teddy bears' picnic

What it is

A gentle, classic party for toddlers. Every child brings a teddy, and the teddies join in the games and the picnic. Short and simple, with parents staying to help.

Plan ahead

• Two weeks before: ask each child to bring a favourite teddy. Choose a garden or quiet spot in a park.
• The day before: pack the picnic and prepare small bow ties or ribbons for the teddies.

Set the scene

Picnic blankets in a circle, a wicker basket, bunting between trees and a few extra teddies sitting on cushions. A “Teddy Hospital” table with a toy doctor’s kit and plasters.

Activities

• Teddy hunt: hide small teddies for children to find (one each).
• Parachute bounce: put teddies on a play parachute and bounce them up and down.
• Teddy hospital: children check their teddy’s heartbeat and add a plaster.
• Songs: “Round and round the garden”, “Teddy bear, teddy bear, turn around”.

Food and drink

• Honey sandwiches (only for over-1s) and jam sandwiches
• Bear-shaped biscuits, fruit and cheese
• Juice boxes
• A bear-shaped cake or teddy cupcakes

Tips

• Keep it under two hours and at a time that fits naps.
• Label teddies with names so none go missing.