In what is either a truly genius or entirely creepy move, a collaboration between the Boston Children’s Hospital and M.I.T. has combined the nostalgic comfort of the teddy bear with the technological advances of the 21st century to produce Huggable, the robotic teddy bear that talks to sick children. According to a report from the New York Times, the lovable plush toy — but make that machine — is meant to “alleviate anxiety, pain, and isolation for children in a hospital.” 90 children at the Boston Children’s Hospital are currently involved in a study to determine just how helpful Huggable really is.
Ultimately, Huggable’s goal is to make children happier. Doctors are increasingly recognizing the importance of a patient’s psychological well-being, especially when it comes to children. Dr. Peter Weinstock, the director of the Simulator Program at the hospital, told the Times, “What we do know is that children who are happier, who feel better, it can have a big effect on healing.”
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