Organised by the Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine, the event showcased research in action from the International Centre for Applied Research (iCARE) with children, young people, pregnant women and families. Academics and staff delivered a series of interactive, research-based activities designed to help children and their parents move, play and learn together.
Young visitors brought their favourite teddy bears along for a check-up at the popular Teddy Bear Hospital, where they learned about basic life support, anatomy and X-rays using official Teddy ID badges.
Families also tested their problem-solving skills with an interactive Dragon Challenge, explored healthy eating and nutrition and got creative with outdoor nature crafts, including pebble painting, wool hearts and nature mandala art.
Professor Lucy Bray, iCARE Centre Director and Professor in Child Health Literacy at Edge Hill University, said: “Events like the Family Discovery Day are so important as it gives us a chance to connect with the community and translate our research into engaging activities to spark curiosity and learning for both children and parents.
“Learning directly from children brings incredible energy to our cross-Faculty research centre, helping us shape future work that is grounded in children and family’s perspectives and real-world needs.”
Professor Lucy Bray, iCARE Centre Director and Professor in Child Health Literacy at Edge Hill University, said: “Events like the Family Discovery Day are so important as it gives us a chance to connect with the community and translate our research into engaging activities to spark curiosity and learning for both children and parents.
“Learning directly from children brings incredible energy to our cross-Faculty research centre, helping us shape future work that is grounded in children and family’s perspectives and real-world needs.”
Alongside the educational activities, families enjoyed free refreshments and ice cream from a local van, while exploring the beautiful campus surroundings.
The event offered a glimpse into the vital work carried out by iCARE, a leading hub uniting academics, clinicians, researchers and service users across health, social care and education. Families interested in helping shape future research were also invited to stay connected with the centre.
The day left a lasting impression on attendees:
“My 8-year-old granddaughter and I loved the Teddy Bear Hospital, it was a very special opportunity with so much to learn in a fun, positive way,” shared one grandparent.
Another parent noted: “We had a wonderful time, and the sports team were awesome with my son, who has ASD. He’s now decided he wants to attend University and study sports education!”
Find out more about iCARE Research Centre and the Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine at Edge Hill University.
September 7, 2026
