IROQUOIS –– The Iroquois High School HOSA Future Health Professionals chapter recently hosted a Teddy Bear Clinic in the school gym, transforming the space into a miniature hospital to give preschool through second graders a fun and hands-on introduction to healthcare. HOSA members set up tables around the gym to represent various hospital departments, including a reception desk, first aid and vitals area, casting and X-ray station, dental booth, nutrition education table, and pharmacy.
Each child brought a favorite stuffed animal to serve as their patient, and HOSA students guided them through the check-in process and several stages of care.
At each station, children learned about basic health topics, such as healthy eating, dental hygiene, and how doctors and nurses help people feel better. The event aimed to make healthcare settings feel less intimidating for young children while also inspiring curiosity about health and science. For the HOSA students, the clinic served as a valuable opportunity to practice teamwork, communication, and leadership skills in a real-world setting.
The Teddy Bear Clinic also highlighted the importance of community involvement and health educationtwo major goals of the HOSA program. By connecting with younger students in an interactive way, Iroquois HOSA members were able to promote both compassion and awareness about future careers in healthcare.
The Iroquois High School HOSA chapter continues to host projects and events that strengthen leadership, service, and learning among students while encouraging the next generation to explore the many possibilities within the health professions.
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