A hospital where patients have fluffy ears and slightly worn seams, that's the as cute as it is clever concept of the Teddy Bear Hospital. Sponsored by the Toulouse Medical Student Association (ACEMT), this event takes place at the University of Toulouse from March 10th to 14th, welcoming hundreds of children aged 5 and 6 along with their stuffed companions.
The idea? To familiarize the little ones with the medical world by allowing them to accompany their sick teddy bears through a life-sized care journey. From check-in to consultations, passing through the pharmacy and even radiology, each station is run by medical, pharmacy, nursing, and other health students. A kind-hearted setup for children to discover the hospital world without stress, all while having fun.
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Teddy Bears to Tackle the Fear of White Coats
But this mini-hospital doesn’t just pop up out of nowhere! Before their visit, the children get a fun introduction in class, led by specially trained students under the guidance of Professor Raynaud, head of the University Service of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The goal: to demystify the white coat and build a trusting relationship with the caregivers of tomorrow.
Born in Germany in 2000 under the name Teddy Bear Hospital, this concept has since won over all of Europe and is gradually making its way to France, where it is now organized in 35 cities. A project that's as playful as it is beneficial, helping both children and future healthcare professionals. Because after all, taking care of a stuffed animal is already a first step towards fear-free consultations!
Source : The Independent Opinion