How Do You Kangaroo?

Fortunately shortly before I knew for sure that I would have Chase early, I discovered what they call "kangaroo care" and how it is used in the NICU, among other places and for a variety of reasons. I cannot tell you how therapeutic this has been for me, much less for our baby boy. Now, not everyone is a believer, and this was the stem of issues between a couples nurses and I, but overall, most people are on board with the benefits that just cannot be provided with modern technology. 

This information was found on the March of Dimes website, who of course focus on premature babies -prevention and health. 

Holding your baby close: Kangaroo care

Kangaroo care is the practice of holding your diapered baby on your bare chest (if you're the father) or between your breasts (if you're the mother), with a blanket draped over your baby's back. This skin-to-skin contact benefits both you and your baby.

You may be a little nervous about trying kangaroo care. If your baby is very small or sick, you may be afraid you'll hurt him. But you won't. Your baby knows your scent, touch and the rhythms of your speech and breathing, and he will enjoy feeling that closeness with you. Kangaroo care can help your baby:

• Maintain his body warmth
• Regulate his heart and breathing rates
• Gain weight
• Spend more time in deep sleep
• Spend more time being quiet and alert and less time crying
• Have a better chance of successful breastfeeding (kangaroo care can improve the mother's breastmilk production)

Kangaroo care has emotional benefits for you, too. It builds your confidence as you provide intimate care that can improve your baby's health and well being. You are giving something special to your baby that only you can give. By holding your baby skin-to-skin, you will feel the experience of new parenthood and closeness to your baby. Kangaroo care is healing in many ways, for both you and your baby.

Ask your NICU staff about its policy on kangaroo care. Some NICUs postpone kangaroo care until the infant is medically stable, while others use it from birth onward. Kangaroo care is safe and beneficial, even if your baby is connected to machines. Whatever your situation, kangaroo care is a precious way to be close to your baby. You will cherish this time. 

Just a way to spread the word for moms, dads, nurses, and everyone in between. This has saved me the past 11 days!

Updates on Chase:

He's had a fairly quiet day today, we're just trying to take it easy. He's been fairly consistent with feedings, and showing progress each day. Hoping to see the doctor to bust him out of the isolet, and get into a "big boy bed" - or regular bassinet- looking like tomorrow :) Carrie (our wonderful nurse) just came in to report that there were no brady's all shift- which was amazing! Last night he weighed in at 4lbs 3.3oz- which is more than his birthweight- yay! Will update later with pics & weight...