From June 26 to July 9, kids can step into a set of scrubs and become mini medics, thanks to a partnership between Werribee Mercy Hospital and major regional shopping centre, Pacific Werribee.
The interactive and educational Werribee Ward event will transform Pacific Werribee into a neonatal hospital ward where children aged five to 12 can get hands-on experience caring for life-like newborns.
For a gold coin donation, all are welcome to bring their youngsters along to learn how to feed, swaddle and care for a baby in the play ward.
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- Baby Care at Werribee Ward
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- Baby Care at Werribee Ward
The City of Wyndham has one of Victoria’s highest birth rates, with almost 100 babies born each week – enough to fill four classrooms. The immersive sessions will use STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths) to teach the children of today how to care for the babies of tomorrow using some of the world’s most advanced baby simulators. Additionally, inspiring a career in medicine and helping siblings accept and understand the needs of a newborn.
Ryan Ling, General Manager of Pacific Werribee, said, “This is a great way for kids from Werribee and beyond to learn and have fun during the holidays.”
“We’re looking forward to seeing the community come together and make memories at the centre, hopefully inspiring Melbourne’s next generation of health professionals in the process.”
While the kids let off steam, parents can get involved through informative workshops. For $5 a session, parents can participate in baby first aid run by Tiny Hearts, baby massage lessons, and a chat with Dr Anneke Engwerda from Mercy Health, who will provide expert advice on introducing solids to little ones.
Parents are encouraged to enjoy a coffee and share parenting challenges, ask questions, and get expert advice in a safe, inclusive space.
With Werribee Mercy Hospital as a pillar of the community, all funds raised by the Werribee Ward event will go towards the hospital’s paediatric ward.
Acting General Manager of Werribee Mercy Hospital, Bradley Van Ooi, said, “We are so pleased that the funds raised by this fantastic event will be directed to our Paediatric Ward. The hospital provides comprehensive care for the people living in the City of Wyndham, and every bit of help makes a difference.”
