Piedmont Athens Regional recently celebrated Child Life Month with its third annual Teddy Bear Clinic, welcoming more than 100 local children and their families for a day focused on medical play, education and community connection.

Volunteers from Piedmont and other community organizations led the children through a number of interactive stations designed to mimic common medical experiences. Using stuffed animals as their “patients”, the children practiced procedures in a fun environment. The goal is to help reduce fear and anxiety related to actual medical visits and procedures.

“This was such a wonderful experience for these children,” a participant shared. “Seeing the smiles at every station made the day unforgettable.”

Piedmont Athens’ certified child life specialist says medical play is a key therapeutic tool that allows children to gain understanding and control while learning positive coping skills that can benefit them during future health care visits.

Families at the event also enjoyed outdoor educational activities hosted by Safe Kids, including meeting first responders and touch‑a‑truck experiences with a fire truck, ambulance, and law enforcement vehicles. The event also provided free car seat safety checks, with booster seats distributed as needed. A surprise appearance by the University of Georgia’s Hairy Dawg mascot added to the day’s excitement.

Attendees praised the event for its organization, welcoming atmosphere and impact.

“It far exceeded my expectations, from the experiences at each table to the friendly staff and the gifts we got to take home with us,” one parent said. “The unexpected visit from Hairy Dawg and the touch‑a‑truck outside made it even more special—and it was all free.”

Another attendee, a longtime Piedmont employee, said the clinic encouraged future participation.

“Our kids had so much fun,” the parents said. “I’m hoping to bring all of our kids next time.”

The organizers of the event said it continues to be an important way to highlight pediatric services at Piedmont Athens while strengthening connection with families in the community. Information about the 2027 Teddy Bear Clinic will be released later in the year.

For more information about pediatric services available at Piedmont Athens Regional, visit piedmont.org.