Hi everyone:
I am new to the world of hospital clowning. I have been a clown for 7 years but started hospital clowning. In the short time I have been doing it I must say "I LOVE IT". I belong to a great group called Clowns on Rounds. I work 2 days a week in a hospital and nursing home.
Valentine and St. Patricks day are just around the corner and I would love any ideas for give away items for these special days. Both for patients and staff.

Hello Wilma.

We try to minimize giveaways. Patch Adams taught us (correctly) that when we give away things, people look at us a givers of THINGS and our opportunities to connect on a personal and emotional level is diminished.

That said, there are a few things that can be given as props and helps in the interaction. Such things include stickers of fish for the IV bag, foam red noses to "turn the patient into a clown" and polaroid photos at the end of the visit to remember the clown visit (usually done in conjunction with the red nose). These "give-aways" are best done at the END of the visit, AFTER the heart to heart connections have been made.

For me (and Pixie Sprite, my wife and clown partner), the CARING is first, the CLOWN is a mechanism for the caring, and the entertainment is a tool, not the focus.

I thank Patch and Shobi Dobi and others for the great instruction in these matters.

Thank you for your reply. I do all that you suggested. (foam nose, polaroid picture, fish for the iv and stickers).

Just thought being a special day someone might add a little something to the above.

HI,

We have been lucky at our hospitals and usually get a box of Simple valentines from local children. They have a nice touch since they have a signature and verse from the kids.We get wonderful reactions when we tell the patients where they come from. It is a thrill; we are priviledged to deliver them.

I carry them around in a Victoria secret bag which usually draws some fun comments from staff and visitors.

For St. Pats day, just wear the green whatever! and spread your usual Blarney.

hugs

And have fun

[This message was edited by Arne on January 13, 2004 at 08:11 PM.]