BUILDING THE BRAINS OF OUR NEXT GENERATION
The BabyGym Foundation is a registered Non-Profit Company dedicated to supporting early childhood development in South Africa. To date, more than 35,000 babies and adults have benefited from the BabyGym programme.
Now, we are extending this contribution to babies and families facing one of the most challenging beginnings imaginable: a stay in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
A BOOK FOR A LITTLE FIGHTER
Sunday, 15 November is World Prematurity Day.
On this special day, BabyGym Instructors across South Africa will visit Neonatal Intensive Care Units to gift a storybook to the parents of premature and critically ill babies and children.
For a parent sitting beside a hospital bed, there can be very little they can do. Reading gives them something they can do together with their baby.
As Dr Greg Boden, neonatologist at Life St George’s Hospital, explains:
Reading to babies has been seen to calm the baby. This can be seen objectively by watching a slowing heart rate and breathing rate, better synchronisation of breathing with the ventilator and a reduction in blood pressure. It has also shown decreased physical cues of discomfort.
A familiar voice can provide comfort and connection in an unfamiliar environment. Research into reading and parental voice exposure in the NICU suggests that it may support infant regulation, parent–baby interaction and early language development.
For parents, reading can also provide a sense of purpose during a stressful hospital stay. The sound of a familiar voice reminds a baby that they are not alone — and reminds a parent that they have an important role to play in their baby's journey.
HELP US PLACE A BOOK IN EVERY PARENT'S HANDS
Would you or your company like to support this meaningful initiative?
One storybook costs R120.
Every contribution, large or small, can help us place a book in the hands of a parent and a gentle story beside a baby's incubator.
R120 = 1 book
R600 = 5 books
R1,200 = 10 books
R6,000 = 50 books
You are also welcome to contribute any amount you can.
FOR BUSINESSES
Your company can help us reach more families by sponsoring a number of books or making a contribution towards the project.
The BabyGym Foundation is a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC) and Public Benefit Organisation (PBO). As a registered PBO, the Foundation can issue Section 18A certificates for qualifying donations, making eligible donations tax-deductible.
ANY QUESTIONS?
WhatsApp: +27 82 301 5860
Email: institute@babygym.co.za
THANK YOU
A donation to The BabyGym Foundation is an investment in the future of our children. Your contribution helps us create a stronger, brighter South Africa.
