The Polar Express books were enthralling, the fleece blankets were cozy — and “Brady” the therapy dog was the added attraction Tuesday during the annual distribution of the items to pre-kindergarten children at George G. Blaisdell Elementary School in Bradford.

The eighth-annual program, conducted by teenagers with the Student Council at Bradford Area High School, is often a highlight of the holiday season for the youngest children at the elementary campus.

“The kids love this because today is our pajama day and we’ll watch the Polar Express movie, and get the stories read to them, too” by students and staff, said lead teacher Marty Cummins.

“They do like having the different (high school) kids come in and read to them.”

Cummins said other teachers of pre-kindergarten classes involved included Amber Benjamin, Lindsay Crappio, Shannon Luzzi, Yvonne Tilford and Kimberly Kendall.

Student Council advisor Ashley Jackson said the 22 students in her organization made 105 fleece blankets with tied ends during their free time on campus as well as after school. They also raised funds for the purchase of the books.

“Our kids enjoy it, too,” Jackson said of the teenagers. “This is one of the things that kids join the council for, so they can participate.”

High school seniors who commented on the program included Josie Kelly, who said she knows the children enjoyed the event.

“It feels good to give back to the community, especially at Christmastime,” Kelly said. Another student, Ellery Signor, said it was her first time to help with the program and it was “very rewarding.”

For her part, Morgan Shade said it was also her first year to help with the program.

“I just really like to read to the kids and be with them,” Shade said. “They were so excited and laughing and smiling the whole time.”

Taylor Mager, a senior with the childcare program conducted by the high school’s Family and Consumer Science class, was also at the event. Mager has worked in the pre-kindergarten classes this semester and enjoyed the change in pace provided by the holiday program.

“I like being able to see them enjoy getting new stuff” such as the books and blankets, Mager said of the children.

Stratton, who was at the school with her dog for their weekly visit, dropped by the pre-kindergarten class unannounced. At times, through no fault of his own, “Brady,” a golden retriever, stole the affections of the children — and staff.

Stratton said she typically walks “Brady” through the halls of the school, and into the library, for brief visits with everyone in the building. She said the visit during the holiday program was special to her and “Brady,” too.

“He comes in every Tuesday and just loves it,” Stratton said of her 8-year-old canine.