Consultation for cuddly toys: More than 170 visits to the Teddy Clinic

A stuffed tiger with a toothache, a bat with a lame wing and a sad donkey: On Thursday, 5 November 2026, more than 170 pre-school children from Witten brought their ailing soft toys to the Teddy Clinic at the University of Witten/Herdecke (UW/H). Supported by 60 students studying medicine, dentistry and psychology, they playfully guided their little friends through a day in the clinic.

The Teddy Clinic: an experience for children and students

For many children, a visit to a doctor’s surgery or a hospital is associated with great anxiety or even fear. Unfamiliar equipment, strange smells and strangers in white coats can be intimidating. This is precisely where the ‘Teddy Clinic’ initiative comes in: ‘We want to help children overcome their fear of hospital visits in a playful way. By accompanying their cuddly toys, they can ask questions about examinations and treatments without any pressure, thereby building trust,’ says Greta Hagelstein from the organising team. The event is also a valuable experience for the students: they practise responding to the needs and concerns of young patients, explaining medical procedures in an age-appropriate way and interacting with them on an equal footing with great empathy.

From radiology to the dental clinic: this is how a visit to the Teddy Clinic works

Just like in a real hospital, the soft-toy patients went through various wards, where they were treated according to their ailments. The children were able to step into the role of young ‘junior doctors’ themselves and help look after their injured penguins, polar bears and monkeys. In the radiology department, they analysed X-rays; in surgery, they helped to stabilise injured wings; and at the operating table, wearing face masks and caps, they assisted with the treatment of their charges.  In the dental ward, the three- to six-year-olds practised the correct toothbrushing techniques using a large stuffed horse. Together with psychology students, they learnt to recognise and express feelings such as fear, joy or sadness using teddy bears and symbol cards.

A special highlight awaited the children at the end of their visit to the Teddy Clinic: the ambulance from the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund, Witten District Association. The children were allowed to explore the inside of the vehicle and even switch on the blue lights and siren themselves.

Further information:
The Teddy Clinic takes place twice a year. The project is funded entirely by donations and is supported by the Witten University Society (WUG), ensuring that numerous ‘patients’ can be treated again next time. As soon as the next date for spring 2027 has been confirmed, the nurseries will be informed by email. If you have any questions or would like to be added to the mailing list, please feel free to send an email to teddykrankenhaus@uni-wh.de.