Using mascots in the classroom

Writing about all the various benefits and functions of local mascots, I had the thought that they could also be used as supplemental teaching materials in the classroom. Not the mascots themselves, but a picture of them, or, if you have them, a plush version of them! They might be especially useful with younger children, with their fun and colorful appearance. 

For English lessons they could be used, for example, in a lesson about describing things. There is great scope here with the different colors, shapes and designs. In addition, most of the mascots have some sort of motifs on them, and some carry accessories. Giving even more scope for English lessons.

But you could also tie in local geography and history to lessons too, either in English or even Japanese. I think it was thanks to the Saitama Prefecture mascot that I learned the bird of Saitama, pictured, is the Shirakobato, Eurasian collared dove! Have you ever used mascots in the classroom?