Child life programs around the world host Teddy Bear Clinics, including one recently set up at Sidra Medicine in Doha, Qatar, by the Qatar Foundation. The goal of these clinics is to provide developmentally appropriate learning and exploration about the healthcare environment for children aged 2-12. By allowing children to bring their stuffed animals to the clinic and engage in medical procedures such as X-rays, casting, and assessments, the Teddy Bear Clinic aims to reduce fear and anxiety associated with hospital visits, surgeries, and procedures.
The Teddy Bear Clinic at Sidra Medicine brings together staff, patients, and families in a fun and engaging way to enhance emotional safety and reduce trauma for children undergoing medical treatment. Patients have the opportunity to explore medical materials and equipment through pretend play, encouraging questions, conversations, and experiential learning in a safe environment. The clinic received a positive response from over 40 children and their families, who were able to participate in various educational activities led by hospital staff.
Caroline Mcintire, Manager of Child Life at Sidra Medicine, emphasizes the importance of events like the Teddy Bear Clinic in helping children understand and take control of their healthcare journey. By providing interactive and educational experiences, these events can minimize the traumatic effects of medical treatment for children within healthcare settings. The clinic also highlights Sidra Medicine’s unique resources as an emotional safety leader for children in Qatar.
The first Teddy Bear Clinic organized by Child Life Services at Sidra Medicine involved collaboration with several hospital departments, who set up stations in the healing garden for the children and their furry patients to explore. Activities such as making glitter wands with blood collection vials and learning about medical procedures in a fun way were enjoyed by patients, with many expressing a desire for similar opportunities to be available more often. Some patients even named their stuffed animal after the event and bring it to ongoing treatment appointments.
Overall, the Teddy Bear Clinic at Sidra Medicine was a success in empowering children to take control of their healthcare experiences, reducing fear and anxiety associated with medical treatment, and providing a positive and educational environment for patients and their families. The clinic’s focus on hands-on learning, interactive activities, and emotional safety highlights the importance of child life programs in supporting children through challenging medical situations. Through events like the Teddy Bear Clinic, Sidra Medicine continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing exceptional care for children in Qatar.
