Ariella says that using a teddy as a preparation toy or to mark a milestone procedure is a wonderful way to allow children to articulate their thoughts, feelings and fears through play – a process they can continue when they get to keep the teddy.
“I will never forget the first time I watched a play therapist give a child a teddy bear to demonstrate the procedure that they were going to have done,” she says. “The child watched in wonder and couldn’t believe it when they were given the bear to keep.”
You can buy a bear or donate a furry friend to a hospital of your choice, or 'where it's most needed' here.