As summer comes to an end, it can only mean one thing—back to school. And that goes for the patients of Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital as well.

The kids work their studies in around medical treatments with teacher and educational liaison, Sarah Smith.

This week, students-to-be picked up school supplies at the children’s hospital and enjoyed a variety of curriculum stations hosted by Hope College. The kids participated in math, art, science, music, reading and writing activities. They also got their first-day-of-school photos taken and printed for mom and dad.

“It’s nice that kids can come here because they have open houses that they are missing at their own school systems,” Smith said. “Here they are able to get a backpack, different donated school supplies, and free books.”

Smith said she’s excited to kick off the Club TCB (taking care of business) with the new school year at the hospital.

“Club TCB (gives) them a great distraction while they are here, but also keeps them engaged in some normal routines,” Smith said.