Neonatal Development
We are a subunit of Kids Helping Kids made up of nine students at Del Campo High School, aiming to aid infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit who are at a high risk of lacking sensory development skills.
COURSE OF ACTION
Over 300,000 babies are admitted into the NICU each year. Babies suffering in the NICU are separated from their mother’s comfort, as well are exposed to certain possible defects due to the lack of sensory development. Studies from the National Institute of Health show that, 39% to 52% of infants born prematurely are more likely to have sensory processing disorders. A lack of this development can lead to a variety of future disorders that include, ADHD, depression, and can also be linked to autism, in which we are aiming to reduce the possibility of these deficits.
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WHY WE DO IT
Everyone in our subunit has a certain passion and dedication towards this population. From meeting with multiple Neonatal development therapists, we have seen firsthand how underserved this population is. We believe within Kids Helping Kids we can truly make a difference in it. We have acquired a variety of real world skills that have benefited us in many ways. Being empowered in these ways has made us realize that our need is to serve the needs of these babies enduring extreme hardships. Being able to change a brand new life in order to prevent future problems and obstacles is our end goal.
Our INNOVATION
With our innovation, the LoveLink, babies are exposed to scent and sound, while also being comforted by the voice and smell of their mother during their distance in the NICU. Moms will have the ability to either buy the product, be provided with one by the hospital, or be donated one set. One is always in their shirt being prepared to be given to the baby, one is with the baby, and one is in the wash being properly sanitized. Being made of of 100% cotton cloth makes it one of the safest materials for the baby. A voice box will be implemented inside of the pocket on the LoveLink, and placed around the shoulder area of the baby so they are still able to pick up on the scent, and hear their guardians voice.
