Free Teddy Bear Clinic Brings Learning and Fun to Local Families

Richland Center, WI (May 30, 2026) The Richland Hospital and Clinics (TRHC), in partnership with the Brewer Public Library of Richland Center, successfully hosted its first-ever Teddy Bear Clinic at the hospital on Saturday, May 30.

The event welcomed children, their stuffed animals, and families for a morning of hands-on learning, creativity, and fun.

The free, interactive event invited children to bring their favorite stuffed animals- or adopt a new one on-site- and step into the role of caregiver. Young participants guided their plush companions through a series of engaging “exam stations,” including height and weight checks, bandaging “injuries,” and even a pretend X-ray experience. Each activity was designed to help children feel more comfortable and confident in healthcare settings.

Families were greeted by TRHC’s “Boo-Boo Bear,” who ushered them to story time, where the Brewer Public Library book How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon? was read by Allison Ewing, APNP at Richland Hospital Clinic, before heading to the Teddy Bear stations. With a health checklist in hand, children rotated through each station and enjoyed creative activities, including painting a giant bear using syringes to squirt paint.

Participants completed their experience by receiving a Health Certificate for their stuffed animal.

The Brewer Public Library was on hand to share summer reading resources, stickers, bookmarks, and a fun teddy bear activity sheet. 

“This event was created to help ease anxiety and make healthcare feel approachable for children,” said Heather Thome, RN, and one of the event organizers. “It was incredibly rewarding to see kids engaging, learning, and having fun.”

Volunteers and staff played a key role in bringing the event to life, guiding families through each station and creating a welcoming, educational environment. The Teddy Bear Clinic not only provided an opportunity for imaginative play but also introduced children to healthcare concepts in a positive and memorable way.

One young attendee arrived with concern, telling staff, “Teddy is sick.” She was quickly reassured that she had come to the right place and that her bear would be well cared for. By the end of the visit, Teddy had received a clean bill of health. When asked if Teddy was feeling better, the child responded with an enthusiastic “yes” and a big smile- capturing the heart of the Teddy Bear Clinic experience.

About The Richland Hospital and Clinics
The Richland Hospital and Clinics is a nationally awarded health care facility dedicated to caring, educating, and healing. Providing compassionate care for 100 years to residents of the greater Richland County area, TRHC operates an independent, integrated medical practice group in three locations, including rural health clinics in Spring Green and Muscoda and a critical access hospital at its primary location in Richland Center, WI.

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