Every baby admitted to Bradford hospitals neonatal unit gifted with 'Bookstart' pack
Research shows that reading to babies from a very early age has a very positive effect on their neuro development
Last updated 12th Jan 2022
A new scheme by Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, means every baby admitted to the neonatal ward, will get a book start pack.
Neonatal units provide care for babies who are born prematurely (before 37 weeks), with a medical condition which needs treatment, or at a low weight.
Research shows that reading to babies from a very early age has a very positive effect on their neuro development.
“Many of the babies in our neonatal unit are at high risk of developing communication and literacy difficulties in the future."
All the families of the babies on the unit will now receive a book pack of carefully-selected story books including nursery rhymes.
Dr Lok, whose behind the scheme said:
“Previously Neonatologist, Dr Chris Day, who has now retired, had organised book packs for the unit, and I am really pleased to have been able to restart the programme as research shows that reading to babies from a very early age has a very positive effect on their neuro development.
“This is particularly true in the case of tiny babies who are at a high risk of developmental delay; as a Level 3 neonatal unit here in Bradford, we are looking after some of the sickest babies.”
“As a unit, we want to promote a positive culture and involve parents in the day-to-day care of their babies, which of course can be difficult when they are separated from each other.
Bradford hospital have a 24-hour visiting for parents, and encourage as much contact as possible, but say it's still not the same as having your baby at home with you.
“Reading to babies is a way of helping parents forge a strong relationship and it also helps to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Reading has a very soothing effect on the babies.
“For premature babies, hearing their parents’ voices just like they would have experienced when they would still be in mummy’s womb, leads to better physiological signs such as a more stable heart rate and better oxygen saturation.
“Many of the babies in our neonatal unit are at high risk of developing communication and literacy difficulties in the future so by exposing them to early and positive auditory experiences, we will actually encourage optimal brain development for them.”