KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A trip to the doctor’s office can be an intimidating experience for young children, but an upcoming event at Cheshire Medical Center aims to change that through hands-on learning and playful exploration.

On April 26, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., children will step into the shoes of healthcare professionals at the hospital’s annual Teddy Bear Clinic. Whether diagnosing a sniffly stuffed animal or performing a pretend X-ray, kids will have the opportunity to experience medical care in a fun and friendly setting.

Designed for children ages 2 to 12, the event offers a unique way to introduce kids to medical environments without the usual stress of an actual doctor’s visit. With guidance from medical professionals at Cheshire Medical Center, a member of Dartmouth Health, participants will role-play as doctors, nurses, and radiology technicians while learning about medical equipment and procedures.

Beyond easing fears about healthcare, the clinic also serves as an educational resource for parents. Caregivers will have access to information on important safety measures, including the proper storage of medications and firearms in the home. Additionally, children attending the event can receive a properly fitted bike helmet, thanks to trained staff offering complimentary fittings.

A new addition to this year’s event is an Emergency-Vehicle-Touch-a-Truck experience, featuring the Dartmouth Hitchcock Advanced Response Team (DHART) and other local emergency vehicles. This portion of the event is open to the public, with no registration required.

Although the Teddy Bear Clinic is free to attend, advance registration is necessary, as space is limited to 74 children. Families can register beginning April 1 by emailing teddybearclinic@cheshire-med.com with their child’s name and age, along with the name of the accompanying adult.

By blending play with practical knowledge, Cheshire Medical Center hopes to turn an often nerve-wracking experience into one filled with curiosity and confidence—one teddy bear at a time.