We'll use the funds raised to assist with purchasing chairs for parents to use in the units for ‘Kangaroo cuddles’.
Once babies are well enough, they are taken out of their incubators and placed on their parent’s chest, usually under their clothes, so the baby gets skin-to-skin contact and can hear the parent’s heartbeat.  The touch, warmth and bonding of Kangaroo cuddles has a number of benefits for both babies and for parents. This closeness provides a warm and soothing environment and helps the parent feel closer to their baby.

Studies have proven that ‘Kangaroo cuddles’ results in physical benefits, fewer breathing problems, less energy-wasting fidgeting, faster weight gain and a more constant body temperature.  The practise is also beneficial for parents to bond with their baby.

Learn more about Kangaroo cuddles here.

An example of Kangaroo cuddles in action. Dad Josh giving daughter Hannah the benefit of skin-to-skin cuddles in the Dunedin Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).