World Prematurity Month 2023: Why I'm proud my baby's NICU has Red Book stickers
I discovered Red Book stickers from The Smallest Things when my first premature child Ben started school. After realising that school may look a little different for us, I began searching for more information online. I read about all the great things The Smallest Things is doing and decided I wanted to become a Prem Aware ambassador for this wonderful charity.
Complex made simple
Why do I believe in these stickers so passionately? The answer is quite straightforward: they simplify a complex journey. As a parent of a premature baby, I often found myself having to explain my baby's NICU journey to healthcare professionals, including health visitors. This became mentally exhausting, not what you need after having a baby in NICU!
Ben, aged 2 days, born at 34 weeks, in Basildon NICU with Dad James
These stickers, though small in size, hold incredible power. They come in handy during regular weigh-ins, developmental milestone checks, vaccinations, and even when a child starts nursery or school.
Born prematurely myself, I understand the significance of these stickers. They serve as a bridge of understanding, helping teachers, healthcare professionals and caregivers know that a little extra time or support may be needed. It's a small gesture that can make a world of difference.
Sticking together
Ben was in Basildon NICU so I really wanted the unit to have the stickers, as well as others across mid and south Essex. I believe they can take away the mental labour of having to recount my baby's NICU journey to every new person I meet. Prematurity and NICU stays should be acknowledged and understood, and these stickers make that process easier.
Bringing these stickers to NICUs was a personal mission for me. Fortunately, I hold the position of the neonatal lead for my Maternity Neonatal Voices Partnership, which allowed me to email the units and arrange for the stickers to be provided. The Smallest Things charity then delivered the stickers directly to the NICUs free of charge. I even learned that some units had received these stickers in the past, and parents found them incredibly useful.
The impact of these stickers has been heartwarming. Parents who have used them have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest tools can have the most significant impact.
Calling all parents of prems
If you're a parent who wishes to bring these Red Book stickers to your units, I encourage you to reach out to The Smallest Things and your local neonatal unit. These stickers are not just for inside the NICU walls; they can benefit all parents of premature babies, whether they are part of transitional care or already at home.
Small gestures, profound impact
“These stickers, though small in size, hold incredible power. They come in handy during regular weigh-ins, developmental milestone checks, vaccinations, and even when a child starts nursery or school.”
Beyond the stickers, I find immense pride in being a part of The Smallest Things charity. Being able to help children and educate schools about the importance of considering prematurity are things that fill me with pride. It's a reminder that even small gestures can have a profound impact on the lives of families and children.
In the world of parenting, particularly when facing the challenges of prematurity, every act of support, understanding, and kindness matters. Red Book stickers may be small, but their potential to create a more empathetic and inclusive world for premature babies and their families is immeasurable. I'm proud to be part of this journey, and I hope that my experience inspires others to join in making a difference, one sticker at a time.
With thanks to Prem Aware ambassador Katie Rippe for sharing her story.