We are so excited to be hosting quarterly Bright Spot Teddy Bear Clinics!  

Join us to play doctor, play dress up, have fun all while learning important coping skills.

A Teddy Bear Clinic is a tool to help kids navigate big feelings like fear and anxiety that tend to bubble up when a parent needs to see a doctor or go to the hospital. Your kids will dress-up like a doctor, nurse or other medical professional with the materials we send in the mail.  All they need to do is come prepared with their favorite stuffed animal or action figure to complete a “patient” check-up.  

This group is virtual (dates at the bottom). Sign up will go live closer to the session. Check back soon!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Teddy Bear Clinic?

Teddy Bear Clinics are an empowering intervention to help demystify the cancer experience for children. Certified Child Life Specialists guide children through hands-on medical play to help them understand what happens at the clinic and hospital. This activity helps them to process feelings and clarify misconceptions about what happens when a parent goes to medical appointments and treatment. 

How do we participate?

Our Virtual Teddy Bear Clinics happen from the comfort of your home! All you need is a screened device to join the virtual meeting. After you register, we will send you the Zoom link and a small package of disposable medical supplies and activity sheets to use during the clinic.

What will happen during the meeting?

A Certified Child Life Specialist will guide children through fun and engaging activities with the medical supplies and activity sheets we send in the mail. Your kids will dress-up in medical gear and be prompted to use the instruments and tools to care for one of their beloved teddy bears/stuffies/dolls. 

How will this activity benefit my child?

Teddy Bear Clinics utilize medical play which is clinically proven to decrease anxiety, stress and fear in children. This intervention also increases understanding and builds coping skills, both of which foster resilience and competency in children. Research shows this type of activity not only helps kids to process questions and feelings about a parent with cancer, but also helps them to feel more confident about going to the doctor themselves. It’s a win-win!

What do we need to bring?

Your child should find a favorite teddy bear, stuffed animal or doll to bring to the meeting to be their patient, along with the package of supplies we send in the mail. 

Should parents/adults participate?

Parents and caregivers are always welcome to join! Children 5 and under will definitely need an adult nearby to assist–older children may benefit from more independence. In general, medical play is most beneficial for kids when they are the ones directing the play and exploration. There is no “right” way to do this–the point is to empower children to take the lead. 

Can my children enjoy the activities even after the meeting?

YES! We encourage kids and families to continue using the supplies and activity sheets after the virtual meeting. You will receive two guides in your package about Teddy Bear Clinics and Medical Play–these may be helpful as you continue supporting your child in exploring questions and themes about cancer, treatment, surgery, and feelings.

2026 Virtual Teddy Bear Clinics:

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Bright Circle (ages 1-5) @ 8 am PT / 9 am MT / 10 am CT / 11 am ET

Bright Club (ages 5-10) @ 9 am PT / 10 am MT / 11 am CT / 12 pm ET

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Bright Circle (ages 1-5) @ 10 am PT / 11 am MT / 12 pm CT / 1 pm ET

Bright Club (ages 5-10) @ 11 am PT / 11 pm MT / 1 pm CT / 2 pm ET

Saturday, September 12, 2026

Bright Circle (ages 1-5) @ 8 am PT / 9 am MT / 10 am CT / 11 am ET

Bright Club (ages 5-10) @ 9 am PT / 10 am MT / 11 am CT / 12 pm ET

Sunday, December 6, 2026  

Bright Circle (ages 1-5) @ 10 am PT / 11 am MT / 12 pm CT / 1 pm ET

Bright Club (ages 5-10) @ 11 am PT / 11 pm MT / 1 pm CT / 2 pm ET