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Presentation
Threads of Comfort: Stuffed Friends for Vulnerable Children
11/2025
Abstract
Introduction: Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) is an organization that provides support for children and adults who have experienced abuse. The identified problem was the anxiety experienced by children during a sexual abuse physical exam. Research findings show a connection between childhood sexual abuse and negative experiences with gynecological exams.
Aims: The purpose of this project was to aid children in using adequate coping techniques when experiencing anxiety. After this educational activity participants will be able to: (1) Describe healthy coping strategies for dealing with anxiety; (2) Demonstrate deep breathing techniques; and (3) Use the “Stuffed Friends” toy as a coping tool.
Methods: The deliverables created for this project were: (1) “Stuffed Friends”both sew and crochet small stuffed animals; (2) Laminated labels with deep breathing instructions; and (3) “Hugs that Heal” infographic to raise awareness for childhood anxiety and coping mechanisms.
Results: The group created a total of 45 crochet and sewed “Stuffed Friends.” All group members were involved in the assembly of the “Stuffed Friends.” Feedback was very positive from the community partner. GCKH plans to use the deliverables as a coping tool to reduce the high levels of anxiety experienced by children after a sexual abuse exam, providing security and reassurance.
Conclusion: Stuffed animals can provide a sense of security and comfort for a child undergoing a stressful medical intervention. This project provided stuffed animals in combination with coping strategies which will hopefully provide the children at GCKH healthy ways to cope with their anxiety.
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Details
- Title
- Threads of Comfort: Stuffed Friends for Vulnerable Children
- Resource Type
- Presentation
- Contributors
- Sallie J Shipman (Faculty Mentor) - University of West Florida, Usha Kundu, MD College of Health
- Copyright
- @ the authors
- Identifiers
- 99381544180106600
- Academic Unit
- School of Nursing; Usha Kundu, MD College of Health; Population Health
- Language
- English