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At Theodora Children’s Charity we help children living with illness, disability and serious health challenges to feel better using the proven power of laughter. Our vision is to contribute to the wellbeing of children in the 15 core hospitals and specialist care centres we visit across England, as well as those we support virtually. Our Giggle Doctors are specially trained performers who are able to visit children in a clinical setting or through the Virtual Visit Programme.
By combining music, play, magic and storytelling our 21 Giggle Doctors bring joy and laughter to children in challenging times. From Dr Boogie Woogie to Dr Teapot, our Giggle Doctors wear their very own ‘doctor coats’, which represent their character, and spend time one to one with the children. Giggle Doctors create opportunities for children to play and interact through a range of musical and fun activities. Sometimes they will make balloon animals and blow bubbles, and at other times they will sing a funny song or simply listen and talk to a child one to one.
The play is always child – led, with each interaction being unique to the child and their needs. A Giggle Doctor visit isn’t just about one magical moment, it can have a significant and lasting impact on a child’s well-being. With each visit, the aim is to reduce stress and anxiety, increase opportunities for play, and improve children’s experience of hospitals.
Many thanks to the Giggle Doctors who brought so much happiness to my 6 year old boy and also to his parents after 3 long days and major surgery. Noah had been in a lot of pain and was feeling fed up. The Giggle Doctors were superb and made him feel so happy and special, they were great at what they do ensuring it was personal and all about him and his toy monkey. Thanks so much!