To inspire the next generation of nurses, physicians, technicians, and other health care professionals (and to show off the cool things their parents do all day) — PPMC’s Human Resources and Nursing teams partnered with units and departments across the hospital to host another successful Take Your Kids to Work Day.
This year, 106 curious and creative kids participated in this annual PPMC tradition. After being welcomed by CEO Michele Volpe and enjoying an energy-boosting breakfast, the kids were broken into groups and led through the hospital by volunteers as they about the diverse groups of people who keep patients safe and healthy. The agenda also featured a twist: each activity station aligned with a different Penn Medicine BE Standard.
For example, the kids were encouraged to BE Empowered by learning how to keep their bones healthy and strong, eat a “rainbow” of fruits and vegetables, communicate clearly with 911, and perform CPR. Other interactive activities included learning how to recognize the symptoms of a stroke, trying on drunk goggles, testing their ultrasound skills, making scented creams with the Pharmacy team, and even going on a laparoscopic exploration to find candy in a mannequin. They also enjoyed a scavenger hunt, with the two winning teams winning commemorative water cups. As the end of the day approached, the kids were invited to express their creativity in a drawing contest focused on working together. Each artist drew how they saw different departments BE Collaborative, and three winners were chosen. Every child who attended also received a backpack and a certificate.
“The committee put a lot of effort into working with each department to create a program that exposed the kids to different career opportunities while still having fun,” said Kim Elam, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP, employee relations and retention specialist. “It was so gratifying to see everyone laughing and smiling throughout the day and to hear parents talking afterward about how much their children enjoyed it.”
Thank you to the Take Your Kids to Work Day planning committee and to everyone who chaperoned groups, organized activities, and made our temporary “employees” feel welcome!