Kingstonist file photo.
Did you know that teddy bears and stuffed animals can experience a check-up right here in Kingston? Designed to alleviate any fears that children may have about visiting a health care provider, the Museum of Health Care’s annual Teddy Bear Hospital Event welcomes hundreds of visitors each year.
The Teddy Bear Hospital event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at the museum, located at 32 George Street. According to a release from the museum, the event is suitable for all ages 0 to 10, and pre-registration for a time slot is required.
Children and their families are invited to bring their teddy bears or other favorite stuffed animals to the museum for a check-up with trained “teddy doctors and nurses,” who will examine and treat any bumps, lumps, and bruises, according to the release.
“This fun, interactive event offers an opportunity for children to learn, laugh, and discover that doctors and hospitals aren’t so scary after all. The day will also include special activities and crafts,” the museum detailed, noting that the Teddy Bear Hospital has been the Museum of Health Care’s signature event for over 10 years, and last year they saw over 250 attendees.
“The goal of the event is to dispel any fears that children may have about visiting a health care provider, improve health literacy, and highlight the Museum’s collection of historical medical artifacts.”
Image via Museum of Health Care website.
The museum noted that admission is by donation and explained that there is no on-site parking. According to the release, the City of Kingston has a number of street and municipal parking lot options, with the closest options being street parking on George Street or Waterfront parking at the base of George Street.
Pre-register for a visit here. Learn more about the Museum of Health Care on its website.