In my work as a Social Worker, I come across concepts and research for my practise. Recently I presented a wonderful piece of research for my Allied Health participation on one of my rounds. Research-The Power of Human Touch for Babies written in 2015 from the Centre for Pediatric Pain Research in Halifax Nova Scotia Canada.
POWER OF HUMAN TOUCH
The article by the team can be read in full at their link. They researched over 600 studies.
With babies, holding, cuddling and when newborn the whole concept of Kangaroo holding-skin to skin has become prevalent. Does it work or make a difference? Well the general consensus is yes. Touch helps premature babies and all full term babies. Touch is needed throughout our lives.
For babies, according to the research many areas like weight gain, shorter hospital stays, stable heart rates, better tolerance of pain, improved sleep, less anxiety and stress, stronger immune system, healthier brain development, increased social skills and improved language skills were areas summarized with good results. Mother's or the caregiver's touch makes a profound effect on babies. Holding and loving by others is vital too.
Different types of touch summarized were holding and rocking, facilitated tucking, infant massage and kangaroo care, i.e. skin to skin.
So what does it mean for the average baby and family. Touch is important from the beginning of life to the end. Well have you touched someone today?
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