Teddy Bear "Stuffie" Clinic

This outreach program, known as the Teddy Bear Clinic, is designed to provide health science students with experiential opportunities to develop clinical communication skills, particularly in interactions with young children. Targeting preK-3rd grade students at a local elementary school, the health science students use their clinical and communication skills to teach children about health while dispelling fears associated with visiting the doctor. The elementary students actively participate in the Teddy Bear Clinic, assuming the role of doctors and completing a wellness check-up for their stuffed animals. The lesson plan outlines various stations set up in the school cafeteria, such as tooth brushing, heart examination, and simulated injections, showcasing a hands-on approach to learning about healthcare.

Here is an article published in Chicago Suntimes about our Teddy Bear Clinic.

The curriculum aligns with National Health Science Standards:

4.4 Employability Preparation

4.4.1 Develop components of a personal portfolio.

• Community Service / Service Learning

4.2 Employability Skills

4.2.1 Apply employability skills in healthcare

• Communication Skills

• Decision making

• Flexible

• Organization

• Problem Solving

4.1 Personal Traits of the Health Professional

4.1.1 Identify personal traits and attitudes desirable in a career ready member of a health team.

• Empathy

2.1 Concepts of Effective Communication

2.1.1 Model verbal and nonverbal therapeutic communication.

• Active listening

• Silence