Inova Loudoun's Teddy Bear Clinic To Help Kids With Hospital Fears

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Going to a hospital can be scary, especially for the youngest patients. That's why Inova Loudoun Hospital is hosting a Teddy Bear Clinic, which is intended to help pre-school and school-aged children become familiar with the hospital setting in a lighthearted environment.

The Teddy Bear Clinic will be held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the hospital's North Entrance hallway near the Riverside Gift Shop. Children may bring their own teddy bear or stuffed animal, or one will be provided for them.

The Teddy Bear Clinic is being hosted amid Child Life Specialist Month, which recognizes child life specialists that support children and their families during health care experiences.

"The Teddy Bear Clinic is all about building trust and familiarity with the hospital," said Emily Phipps, a child life specialist at Inova Loudoun Hospital. "We want children to feel comfortable and confident if they ever need to visit the hospital, and we hope this event will leave them with a positive experience."

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Children will "check in" their stuffed animal to undergo medical experiences, including vitals checks, shots and IV, sutures, X-rays and more. Children are encouraged to ask questions and learn about medical equipment and processes in a hands-on environment.

The event is geared toward ages 3 to 8, but children of all ages are welcome. RSVPs are requested to ensure enough teddy bears are available for attendees. To RSVP, email ILHChildLife@Inova.org with the number of children attending.