CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Local healthcare providers are teaming up to meet the challenge. The St. Elizabeth neonatal intensive care unit is holding a "Kangaroo-A-Thon" as part of what's being called the "Kangaroo Challenge."
They are doing this to promote kangaroo care for newborns. Kangaroo Care Day is a global event to promote the benefits of skin-to-skin snuggling with newborns.
Hospitals across the globe try to encourage this kind of care, even for those who are born prematurely. Kangaroo care is the practice of placing newborns, dressed only in a diaper, against the bare chest of their parent.
This is recognized by the World Health Organization as a way to help infants heal. It's been shown to help steady a baby's heartbeat, reduce pain and calm a baby. It also provides warmth and can help improve breastfeeding. In some cases, it's been shown to help a baby gain weight and sleep better. It also can help parents by improving connection and breastmilk production. If you are planning a pregnancy or have a new baby, this day is about reminding all of us that this is one way to continue to improve health and bonding for baby. It's also a great way to have fun and it has a great message.