Lafrancis Hardiman Elementary School’s second graders recently brought their favorite teddy bears and stuffed animals to school for a hands-on Teddy Bear Clinic, where they learned about the many roles of healthcare professionals through interactive activities. The event was organized by Board of Education Trustee Shameka Brown and staffed by volunteers from Good Samaritan University Hospital. 

Working in small groups, students guided their “patients” through eight different hospital stations, including triage and registration, imaging, surgery, pharmacy, dentistry, nutrition and healthy living, cardiology and pediatrics, and discharge and recovery. Along the way, they checked vital signs, took pretend X-rays, bandaged injuries, learned about healthy habits, listened to heartbeats and even practiced brushing their teddy bears’ teeth. 

The engaging experience introduced students to the world of healthcare while helping ease fears about medical visits in a fun, supportive and age-appropriate environment.