A Guiding Hand for Families in Special Care Nurseries - Digital - Book - Page 70
At home
Remember that premature babies have more active sleep than term babies,
so although they may be moving around at night, they may well be sleeping
better than you think. They can also be quite noisy sleepers.
If your baby is unsettled, you can try stroking them to reassure them you are
there. This will be easier if you can have a Moses basket next to your bed.
You may also want to try leaving a night light on.
Have a routine before bedtime. You could have a warm bath, a feed or
snuggles.
Allow baby time to try and settle on their own. Many babies cry briefly before
going to sleep, and it is better not to pick them up or disturb them if they are
trying to settle down. Watch out for what your baby likes to do before falling
asleep and you will soon be able to read his or her cues.
If you are having trouble settling baby, you could also ask about your closest
Sleep School through your maternal health nurse, GP or paediatrician.
Baby Massage
Baby massage is a great way to become closer to baby and is also very
good for your baby’s health and sense of wellbeing. Massage has been
shown to be especially useful for premature and sick babies.
It can help you bond by making your baby feel safe and loved and will also
help you learn about your baby’s needs. You will both find it very relaxing.
Health benefits can include:
• Better sleep
• Boosting your baby’s immune system
• Improving your baby’s circulation
• Helping your baby’s digestion
• Improving the condition of your baby’s skin
• Helping build self-confidence in both you and
your baby
TIP:
Leave the radio
on low or a night
light on, to help
baby settle into
their new
room
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation | Supporting Families of Premature & Sick Babies
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