I came across an article on Facebook. It was shared by Caring Essentials Collaborative. I read it. Then I knew I wanted to download it, keep it, and take a highlighter to it. Maybe you’ve read it, maybe not.
I examined the article for important points I wanted to share with you. Statements about primitive reflexes, intentionality of the neonate, self-regulatory behaviors activating the vagal system, and how “the increase in vagal tone stimulates growth, increases anabolic activity and facilitates physiological stability.”
But here’s the thing: in the end I highlighted way too much info to add to a “Thought of the Week”. So instead, I want to share the article with you. Since it’s available online I can do so. (Yay!)
The article: “The Newborn Infant: A Missing Stage in Developmental Psychology” by Emese Nagy. Here’s the link.
To read it, just click on the link. If you choose to download it, you’ll have to provide some brief and simple info.
Either way, inform yourself. This is an area in which neonatal therapists can be of GREAT VALUE now and in the future.
This article reflects in part, where we’re headed. And our assessment skills, educational backgrounds and interests are in alignment with this area of study.
Consider how you can use information like this to support developmental care, better oral feeding practices, family-centered care and certainly the field of neonatal therapy.
The babies are counting on you.
