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Kangaroo care is a practice that is becoming more and more popular among parents around the world.
It is a method of caring for infants that is based on close skin-to-skin contact, similar to the way kengurues carry their young. In this article, we will take a closer look at what kangaroo care is, what benefits it brings to both the toddler and the parents, and how to properly carry out this practice.
What is kangaroo care?
Kangaroo care is a practice in which a newborn or premature baby is carried directly on the parent’s skin, usually on the parent’s chest, just as kengurs carry their young in their abdominal pouch. This is a way to ensure closeness and skin-to-skin contact, which has many benefits for the baby.
What are the benefits of kangarooing a baby?
Kangaroo care has many benefits for both the baby and the parents. Here are some of the main benefits of this practice:
Regulation of body temperature: Close skin-to-skin contact helps regulate an infant’s body temperature, which is especially important for premature babies who have difficulty regulating their own heat.
Stabilizing the heart and breathing rhythm: Kangaroo care helps stabilize the baby’s heart and breathing rhythm, which can speed up its development and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Strengthening the bond: Close contact with the parent during kangaroo care helps build a strong emotional bond between parent and child.
Better breastfeeding: Kangaroo care can help mothers breastfeed because the baby is close and easily accessible to the mother’s breast.
Stress reduction: For premature babies, kangaroo care can help reduce stress and improve their overall health.
Kangaroo care of a child – what does proper contact with the baby look like?
To properly carry out kangaroo care of your child, you should remember a few important rules:
Safety: Make sure your little one is properly shielded and supported to avoid accidental falls or injuries.
Comfort: Both the child and the parent should feel comfortable during kangaroo care. A comfortable position and adequate support are crucial.
Time: Kangaroo care should last for a long enough time so that your baby has a chance to reap the benefits of this practice.
Kangaroo care after natural childbirth and after cesarean section – is there any difference?
Kangaroo care can be used both after natural childbirth and after a cesarean section. In both cases, it has many benefits. However, after a cesarean section, you may need additional medical care and support to ensure the safety of your baby and mother.
Does kangaroo care make sense if we do it at home?
Yes, kangaroo care makes sense, even if we do it at home. However, it is worth making sure that the space in which we do it is safe and comfortable for the child. In a home environment, we can enjoy greater freedom and flexibility in practicing kangaroo care.
Your suggestions
If you are a parent or caregiver of an infant, it is worth considering kangaroo care as a care method. However, remember to consult a doctor or specialist, especially if your baby was born prematurely or has any health problems.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about kangaroo care, we recommend reading scientific articles and guides on this topic. It is also worth consulting a doctor or midwife to obtain professional advice and support in practicing kangaroo care.
To sum up, kangaroo care is a valuable practice that can bring many benefits to both children and their parents. It provides closeness, support in development and builds strong emotional bonds. If you’re a parent, consider incorporating kangaroo care into your baby care routine – it’s a loving gesture that can have long-lasting benefits.