Teddy bears became a national childhood institution in 1903. Today, they are still loved by children and adults as warm, lovable, and safe companions. Their presence at an event this weekend is intentional. What better way to help alleviate the fear of a doctor’s appointment than a cuddly teddy bear?
The South Columbus Public Library at 2034 South Lumpkin Road is hosting a clinic on Saturday, March 28, from 10:30 am until 11:30 am, when student doctors from the Mercer University School of Medicine will show your children what happens at the doctor’s office using teddy bears as patients.
To make a potentially scary experience less intimidating, they will demonstrate how gently heartbeats, blood pressure, and more can be checked. You are welcome to bring your own stuffed animals for a checkup.
Fear of medical visits is a common developmental phase, affecting approximately half of all preschool-aged children. This anxiety is typically triggered by a combination of a child’s lack of experience with medical procedures and a high sensitivity to their environment and the emotions of their caregivers.
The presence of an unfamiliar adult who may be tall or have an intimidating voice can be frightening. This is often called “White Coat Syndrome,” where the medical setting and tools trigger temporary spikes in heart rate and blood pressure.
Teddy bears comfort children by serving as transitional objects that bridge the emotional gap between dependence on a caregiver and the development of independent self-soothing. This comfort is rooted in both the biological release of “feel-good” chemicals like oxytocin and the child’s psychological projection of safety and stability onto the toy.
The sensory experience of holding a soft bear reduces stress and anxiety in both children and adults, acting as a therapeutic tool during difficult times or illness.
Grab your favorite teddy bear and learn how a visit to the doctor is not so scary after all.
