When a parent is diagnosed with cancer, it doesn’t just affect them, it affects the whole family, especially their children. At Nankind, we believe in supporting the emotional well-being of every family member, and that includes helping children make sense of what’s happening in a way that feels safe and age-appropriate.
That’s where our Teddy Bear Clinic comes in.
What is a Teddy Bear Clinic?
The Teddy Bear Clinic is a playful, therapeutic experience led by our trained Child Life Specialists. Through guided role play with a Child Life Specialist, children use teddy bears and toy medical equipment to learn about what their parent may be going through.
Whether it’s pretending to give a teddy bear a checkup, wrapping a bandage, or explaining what a port is for, kids are gently introduced to the language and tools of cancer care in a way that’s both comforting and empowering.
Why It Matters
Children often sense when something serious is happening in the family. Without clear, age-appropriate explanations, their imagination can fill in the gaps with fear or confusion. The Teddy Bear Clinic offers an opportunity to:
- Demystify cancer treatments
By exploring medical tools and terminology in a playful setting, children feel more in control and less fearful of what their parent is experiencing. - Encourage emotional expression
Role play gives children a natural way to express their thoughts and feelings, even if they can’t articulate them directly. - Build trust and connection
When families talk openly (with support) about what’s happening, children feel included and reassured. - Promote resilience
Understanding the situation can reduce anxiety and help children build coping skills that will serve them throughout the journey. - A Safe Space to Feel Big Feelings
At Nankind, we know how powerful play can be. The Teddy Bear Clinic is not just about medical education, it’s about creating a safe space where children can ask questions, process emotions, and feel supported.
Cancer may be part of their story, but so is love, support, and warmth.
Watch Jennifer explain the difference the Teddy Bear Clinics made for her daughter.
If your family is navigating a cancer diagnosis and you’re looking for support for your child, register today to learn more about how our Child Life programs, including the Teddy Bear Clinic, can help.