Remodeled VCC: Vale Terrace Pediatrics Nurtures Love of Reading

These days, when children come in for their appointment at VCC, they encounter monkey arms reaching out from a tree; Martians staring down from the ceiling in the exam room; 3-D bugs and butterflies; and books on shelves, books under seats and books on trees.

For pediatric patients and families at Vista Community Clinic (VCC), a visit to the medical provider is now an opportunity to read, explore and learn. A just-completed remodeling project has transformed the entire pediatric unit at VCC’s flagship clinic on Vale Terrace Drive in Vista into an attractive, educational and interactive space for young patients and their families.

The remodeling project was made possible by a generous gift from the late Muriel and Hans Schiff who were long-time supporters of VCC.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

The waiting area brings the outdoors inside with a large sculpted life-like tree with books hanging on branches. A wall, with sculpted bushes and games for children, divides the well and sick areas. Lime green cushioned box seating has replaced hard backed chairs. Each exam room has a sculpted element and a mural with themes such as cars, trains, magic, garden, space, animals and hidden treasures.
The design and installation of the VCC pediatric remodeling project was done by Working Designs and Installations, a New Jersey-based design and fabrication company.

OUR COMMITMENT TO PROMOTE READING

The overarching goal of the remodeling project was to use the time spent in the doctor’s office to spark and nurture children’s interest in reading.
“In all our planning discussions, children were front and center,” said Fernando Sañudo, Chief Executive Officer of VCC. “Along with giving our pediatric patients the best health care, we wanted to create a space where they would feel comfortable and welcome. We wanted a space that was attractive, that would nurture their curiosity to learn, and instill an early love for reading. We are very pleased with the results and so are our patients.”

For many years, health care providers at VCC have used pediatric well visits as an opportunity to educate parents on how to encourage a love of reading in their children. VCC participates in the nationwide Reach Out and Read program where providers give tips to parents on how to engage their children with books. Young patients who come in for well visits also receive a book to take home and read with their families.
“This is a dream come true for all of us here who work in pediatrics and all of VCC,” said Dr. Kelly Motadel, pediatrician and Chief Medical Officer at VCC. “We have always promoted reading to children from a young age. This new project will not only be an ever present reminder of the importance of literacy but will help make reading exciting for parents and children alike. Additionally, the beautiful designs will make visits to the health center more inviting to our young patients and their families. We are so excited for the transformation.”