Photo By Kevin Sommer Giron | Visitors pose for a picture with their stuffed animals at the selfie station during...... read more read more
The National Museum of Health and Medicine held its annual Teddy Bear Clinic on Sept. 13, 2025, welcoming more than 260 guests for a day of fun, learning and health awareness. Children brought their favorite stuffed animals to serve as “patients” while exploring different activity stations run by Defense Health Agency medical professionals and military medical students from the Uniformed Services University.
At the ‘vitals station’, USU student from their Pediatric Interest Group showed children how doctors check the heart, lungs, reflexes and blood pressure.
“Going to the doctor can be scary for children,” said Air Force 1st Lt. Savannah Champagne, a USU medical student. “This event bridges the gap. Children get to learn about medicine on their stuffed animals in a safe environment.”
At ‘the nutrition station’ pediatric residents from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center encouraged kids to think about what they eat and how to make healthier choices. “We’re showing that healthy meals can still be fun and enjoyable,” said Air Force Capt. (Dr.) Keenan Caswell. Children drew pictures of their favorite foods and learned about healthier options to balance their diets.
Nearby, the ‘fitness station’ focused on the connection between activity and well-being. “We’re teaching kids what fitness is about and how to keep their brains healthy and happy,” said Air Force 2nd Lt. and USU medical student Abram Banoub.
At the ‘audiology station’ Walter Reed National Military Medical Center providers, explained what happens during a hearing test. They also talked about why hearing checks are important — not only as part of a child’s annual physical, but also when there are concerns like speech delays or frequent ear infections.
Additionally, the Teddy Bear Clinic gave attendees the opportunity to play the role of a clinician while also gaining comfort with real health care experiences. Medical students had an opportunity to practice bedside manner in a creative setting. For parents, it offered tools to encourage healthy habits at home.
By the end of the day, hundreds of smiling children learned how taking care of their health can be friendly and fun.
Discover more fun and educational events at the museum by visiting medicalmuseum.health.mil
| Date Taken: | 09.13.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.30.2025 11:20 |
| Story ID: | 549685 |
| Location: | SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 71 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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