Bears in the window and hearts on doors

Take a walk around in Clayton, CA, and you are likely to see teddy bears waving to you from windows and front doors adorned with hearts and inspiring messages.

The “bears in the windows” was an idea thrown out there by Clayton Children’s Center teachers looking for something fun, creative, and positive during the shelter-in-place. The idea has also sprung up around many communities in lockdown.

“It’s a fun activity for children to choose a favorite teddy bear, place it in a front window of their home, then spread the word to family, friends, neighbors, and relatives,” says Julie Kirkeeng of Clayton Childrens Center.

“Going on a Bear Hunt‘ is an opportunity for families to get some exercise, do something fun, get outside and be silly, she said.”

While hunting for bears, you might also see front doors adorned with hearts and thank you notes—also made by the children at the Clayton Children’s Center.

“Hearts on Doors”  was suggested by Dana Hills resident Joanna Welch and inspired by a Facebook page as a way to show appreciation to health care workers, police, firefighters and all who are “on the front lines, putting their lives at risk.”