Kim Yaroshevskaya’s legacy continues to inspire, particularly through retired teacher Lucie Mercier, who embodies “Grandma Lulu” at a Quebec daycare. Each month, she captivates young children with her original “therapeutic tales,” promoting values like self-esteem and respect. Drawing inspiration from Yaroshevskaya’s character, Fanfreluche, Lucie’s sessions have become a cherished highlight for the kids, emphasizing the importance of pursuing dreams and offering a welcome alternative to digital distractions.
The Enduring Legacy of Kim Yaroshevskaya
Even after the passing of actress Kim Yaroshevskaya, her spirit continues to shine brightly, inspiring initiatives like that of a retired teacher who channels the joy of her iconic character, Fanfreluche, to uplift young children at a daycare near Quebec.
Bringing Stories to Life with Grandma Lulu
Once a month, Lucie Mercier visits the Vision school in Lac-Beauport to enchant children aged 18 months to 4 years with her original “therapeutic tales.” With a rich background in special education spanning 19 years at the college level, she transforms into “Grandma Lulu,” donning a vibrant dress and bringing along a treasure chest, an electronic keyboard, and a large storybook.
The little ones are captivated by her imaginative storytelling and the watercolor illustrations created by her partner, immersing themselves in narratives that promote self-esteem, responsibility, and respect for differences. Véronik Laperrière, the daycare director, shares that these sessions with the affectionate “grandmother” have been a resounding success for three years, with children eagerly anticipating her visits. “They love it, and even the parents use her presence as motivation to bring their kids to daycare,” she notes, highlighting the positive impact on reading initiation.
Lucie’s journey began with workshops at Cégep de Sainte-Foy, where she introduced the concept of therapeutic tales—stories infused with morals intended as intervention strategies. Her character, “Grandma Lulu,” emerged after a suggestion from her former student, Véronik, who invited her to share stories at the daycare. While not a direct imitation of Fanfreluche, the beloved character serves as a significant inspiration for Lucie.
“Fanfreluche had a unique way of connecting with young audiences,” Lucie says. “She didn’t talk down to us; she engaged with us on our level.” The 66-year-old, brimming with creativity, recalls how Fanfreluche made her feel understood and included during her television appearances.
Like many in Quebec, Lucie viewed Fanfreluche as a youthful idol. The loss of the actress, who lived to the impressive age of 101, left a deep mark on her. Nevertheless, Lucie believes that “Fanfreluche is not truly gone; she lives on in our hearts and minds.” Her philosophy underscores the timeless relevance of the character’s approach.
Lucie Mercier emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams, even in retirement, and she is currently fulfilling her childhood aspiration of “acting on television,” much like her idol. “Every time I go there, I give myself a gift,” she declares. As Véronik Laperrière aptly notes, in an age dominated by digital tablets and interactive animated books, “Grandma Lulu” provides a refreshing escape from the constraints of the digital world.