Teddy Bear Express, or TBE for short, originated as an idea on the Provider's Playground email list in early August of 2004. Teddy bears are sent around the United States and Canada amongst family child care homes, preschools, daycare centers, homeschooling families and elementary schools to visit the children as a fun geography lesson.
** NEW ** Teddy Bear Express is now open to the general public (in addition to the members of Provider's Playground) provided you work with children in one of the above capacities.
TBE takes place just once a year, in September. Applications are taken during the first 3 weeks of August for entry into this program. Enroute, the bears will spend one full week at each facility, bringing with them a photo album, journal, souvenirs, and a treat for the next daycare/school on his/her route.
"BEAR KEEPERS" provide the bears and get them ready for their journeys. "HOSTS" agree to have a bear come and visit their facility. Both Bear Keepers and Hosts adhere to strict guidelines to ensure a successful journey for their bear.
