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At Bethesda Hospital in Boynton Beach, Louise Daddona instructs new mothers on how to give infant massage. She also plans to start instruction at Boca Raton Community Hospital in the near future. Daddona says, "new young moms, especially those with premature infants, can get almost afraid of the baby when they won't stop crying; massaging helps to reduce colic, tones their muscles for future walking and crawling, speeds up their metabolism, and helps to develop their brains (McVicar 3)."
Daddona says "The world would be a better place if all babies and young children got massage and the extra interaction it brings to the relationship between parent and child. It could change the world (McVicar 3)."
Questions and Answers |
A few questions were asked to two different mothers that have experienced birth of preterm infants. For all the MOMMIES who worried about their new preemie, this is for you!
Q: What are some helpful hints to stay positive when dealing with an infant who is premature?
Mom 1: "Where there is life, there is hope. When an infant can feel the touch of your hand and hear your voice, you reassure its ability to fight for life. You encourage them to understand that they're are not alone and someone is there who loves them. Even the tiniest of infant can sense love, which is the natural bond between the mother and child."
Mom 2: " The most important part of dealing with preemie's is keeping a calm happy tone when talking to your baby. Babies are so sensitive if they sense mom upset, depressed, or worried, they too will feel that stress. Being positive and loving with your child is the best thing you can do."
Q: Can you share your experience of giving birth to a preemie and was touch an important factor in your situation?
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Kimberley
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Mom 1: "The hardest part was my frustration about not having my baby close to me at all times. Because of my child's special needs and my own medical problems it was practically impossible to get close to my child. The nurse, sensing the baby and I both needed the closeness, brought the child to me and for a few brief moments I was allowed to touch her cheek with my own. I will never forget the warmth of my baby's skin. That kind of love can never be explained, only felt. It's imperative to touch your child from very early hours after birth to ensure that loving bond makes a good connection. You can never gain back those moments and that moment, the very instant of touch, can set the basis for a lifelong relationship between mother and child." Mom 2: "Loving reassurance through touch is extremely important. Not only is it very important to bond with the baby, but it's important for healthy growth, both physically and emotionally." |
Q: Do you believe that massage is a crucial element for development of an infant?
Mom 1: "Absolutely! I never held my baby without rubbing her back or stroking her head. Holding is almost not enough, stimulation must be made to allow the baby to recognize a mom's touch. Wherever a child can be touched in its incubator will contribute to a sense of love and security, which encourages the baby to develop and fight for life. After all, she's not by herself, she's got Mom."
Mom 2: " Don't get discouraged with set backs, and don't let them cry! If they want to be held, hold them. Rock and sing to them, anything to make them comfy and happy. Love that child with every ounce of your being and enjoy every minute you have with them. While it seems their growth takes forever you will soon find out it took no time at all. My preemies are now 5'10 and 6'2."
