Teddy Bear Hospital

During Teddy Bear Hospital we simulate a hospital environment in which children between the ages of 4 and 8 take care of their “ill” stuffed animal, under the supervision of medical students.

Children can nurse their cuddly bear back to health throughout specialised stations. Here they discover a range of medical procedures.

The event starts outside where children witness a lifesize Teddy Bear take a tumble. They are encouraged to call 112 in case of an emergency, after some time an ambulance appears to take care of Beer lifesize Teddy Bear.

The kids, accompanied by medical students, are then brought to the simulation hospital, where they examine their teddy bears from head to toe. This can include simulation RX, a laboratory analysis and a thorough clinical examination. When a diagnosis is reached they can start the treatment. Therapy can be medication, a real cast on their bears or a procedure in the operating room. Children are dressed in surgical suits, gloves, masks and hats. When their Teddy is finally cured, the children receive a diploma for completing the stations.

Recently, several new stations were introduced. With these new stations we want to introduce kids to paramedical disciplines. The dentistry station is developed and manned by dentistry students. The Mental Health station by psychology and medical students.

Since 2006 mental wellbeing has been included in the definition of Health by the WHO. We aim to introduce children to the concept of mental health and seeking help for mental health from a young age.

Vision

No child fears a hospital environment or interaction with healthcare workers.

Mission

After Teddy Bear Hospital children feel more comfortable visiting healthcare workers and healthcare facilities. They are more informed about medical procedures and their goals.