How To Become a Baby Cuddler for Your Local Hospital’s NICU
Baby Cuddler is a very real and needed volunteer position in many local hospitals. Babies who are born prematurely, have a serious health issue, or are suffering from some form…
Baby Cuddler is a very real and needed volunteer position in many local hospitals. Babies who are born prematurely, have a serious health issue, or are suffering from some form of addiction will often spend considerable amounts of time in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). During this time, they are often separated from their parents for significant amounts of time. Baby Cuddlers are a group of volunteers who spend time holding babies throughout the day so that they experience the physical contact and love that is needed during infancy.
If this sounds like a calling for you, here are the keys to signing up as a volunteer baby cuddler in the NICU:
Research Programs in Your Area
- Do a Google search for "volunteer baby cuddler programs" along with your city or region to find hospitals near you that offer this volunteer opportunity.
- Check the volunteer section of local hospital websites to see if baby cuddler positions are listed.
- Contact the volunteer coordinator at hospitals in your area to ask if they have a NICU baby cuddler program.
Review the Requirements
Each hospital has its own criteria that baby cuddler volunteers must meet, but common requirements include:
- Being at least 18-21 years old
- Passing a background check
- Committing to a regular volunteer schedule, usually a 2-4 hour shift each week
- Having prior experience holding and caring for babies
- Completing health clearances like vaccinations and TB tests. Some hospitals may have additional health clearance requirements for NICU volunteers
Submit an Application
- Fill out the volunteer application form, providing details like your contact info, availability, relevant experience, and references
- Some hospitals may have a waitlist for their baby cuddler program due to high demand. You can ask to be added to the waitlist if the program is currently full.
Interview and Orientation
- If accepted after applying, attend an interview with the hospital's volunteer services staff.
- Complete hospital volunteer orientation and training specific to the NICU and baby cuddler role. This usually includes topics like patient privacy, infection control, and emergency protocols.
- Learn about the special needs of premature and sick infants in the NICU.
- Get instruction on how to safely hold, swaddle, and comfort NICU babies
- Understand the medical equipment and monitors used in the NICU
- Sign a confidentiality agreement and agree to follow all hospital policies
Volunteering as a baby cuddler is a wonderful way to provide comfort and care to vulnerable infants. With some research and by fulfilling the requirements, you can make a meaningful difference for these babies and their families during a challenging time.
To get started in Fayetteville, contact Cape Fear Valley Volunteer Services at 910-615-6783 for more information. Providing love and comfort to these tiny patients is a highly rewarding volunteer opportunity.
Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for the wild ride that is the 2024 election season! As the political circus unfolds, it's essential to prioritize your sanity and well-being.
The 2024 presidential race has taken several surprising turns in recent months:
The next four months are sure to bring more unexpected developments in this already wild and unprecedented presidential election. But fear not, for I have compiled the ultimate self-care guide to help you navigate these turbulent times with a smile on your face and a spring in your step, (hopefully).
Create a Political-Free Zone
Designate a room in your home as a political-free sanctuary. This is where you can escape the endless debates, mud-slinging, and poll-obsessed pundits. Fill this space with calming elements like scented candles, soothing music, and a life-size cardboard cutout of your favorite non-political celebrity. Remember, in this room, the only party allowed is the one that involves dancing and laughter.
Develop Selective Hearing
Master the art of selective hearing when it comes to political discussions. When someone starts ranting about their preferred candidate, simply nod and smile while mentally transporting yourself to a tropical beach. If all else fails, perfect the phrase, "Oh, look at the time! I have to go water my pet rock."
Engage in Retail Therapy
When the stress of the election season becomes too much to bear, indulge in some good old-fashioned retail therapy. Treat yourself to that fancy kitchen gadget you've been eyeing or splurge on a cozy blanket to hide under until the inauguration. Just remember, money can't buy happiness, but it can buy a lifetime supply of ice cream to drown your political sorrows.
Embrace the Power of Laughter
Laughter is the best medicine, especially during an election year. Seek out political satire, comedy shows, and memes that poke fun at the absurdity of it all. Host a "political roast" party with friends, where you take turns impersonating candidates and their ridiculous campaign promises. Just be sure to keep it light-hearted and remember that laughter unites us all, regardless of political affiliations.
Unplug and Recharge
When the 24/7 news cycle becomes too overwhelming, it's time to unplug and recharge. Take a break from social media, turn off the TV, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Go for a walk in nature, read a book (preferably not a political memoir), or take up a new hobby like underwater basket weaving. Disconnecting from the political noise will help you maintain your sanity and perspective.
Practice Political Mindfulness
Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to manage election-related stress. Take deep breaths and repeat calming mantras like, "This too shall pass," or "I am not defined by my political views." When tensions run high, visualize yourself in a peaceful place, like a serene meadow filled with frolicking puppies and kittens wearing tiny "I Voted" stickers.
