Help for the sick cuddly toy: Teddy clinic takes the fear out of visiting a doctor's surgery

The teddy bear has a broken arm, the hippo is complaining of a toothache and the monkey seems to have caught a cold - there's a lot to do at the teddy bear hospital at Witten/Herdecke University. But the budding doctors have the right medicine for every ailment, help the cuddly patients competently and give the owners helpful tips for nursing care. As a side effect, the children reduce their fear of visiting a doctor's surgery.

More than 300 children from kindergartens in Witten and Herdecke and, for the first time, students and employees travelled to the Teddy Clinic on 15 June to have their sick stuffed animals treated. Filling out an admission form, a short stop in the waiting room, a visit to the examination rooms, possibly even an X-ray and a trip to the operating theatre - the young visitors had the opportunity to get to know the different wards that are usually found in a clinic, ask all their questions and even assist in the treatment of their cuddly toys.

They were also able to have their little ones' dental health checked. For the first time, psychology students took part in the format and used a teddy bear to explain to the children how to name and express emotions.

Motivating children to take care of their own health

In cooperation with the Witten District Association of the German Red Cross, visitors were also able to climb into an ambulance and have their colleagues from the rescue service show them the vehicle and explain the equipment.

The three medical students Zoe Drückler, Henrike Kemper and Anna Schmitt organised the event on a voluntary basis. "With the Teddy Clinic, we are investing in a hopefully healthier next generation," says Zoe Drückler. "As a future doctor, it is important to me that fears are reduced and that we motivate children and adolescents to take care of their own health."

Background to the Teddy Clinic

Due to the high demand, the Teddy Bear Hospital now takes place every six months. The next date is planned for autumn 2023. The format is designed to playfully show kindergarten children between the ages of 3 and 6 all the elements of a visit to a doctor's surgery or clinic so that they can gain their first, fear-free experience of medical and dental treatment.

It is also very important to teach them how to brush their teeth thoroughly and to sensitise them to the importance of a healthy diet and sufficient exercise. For the medical students, in turn, it is a good opportunity to practise working with children and thus prepare for their future appointments.

The Teddy Clinic is free of charge and is financed by donations. As soon as the next date has been set, the kindergartens will be informed by e-mail.