This may be a very frightening time for you, but there are still things that you can do to engage with your baby and let them know that you are there for them.

Babies in this category will usually be receiving some form of breathing support from a ventilator via a tube in their upper airway, or a CPAP mask. They may be on lots of medicines to support them and ensure they are not in pain.

Types of things you can do with your baby at this stage

• Being present at their bedside
• Talking, singing and reading to your baby - they know your voice
• Exchanging scent cloths
• Hand hugs - babies that are unwell like still touch, try cupping their head, feet or torso
• EBM oral care - Mouth care with your breast milk
• Taking your baby's temperature
• Changing your baby's nappy
• Having periods of skin-to-skin time with your baby.

This will depend on whether your nurses and doctors think it’s safe to get your baby out of bed. This may change from day-to-day but...We encourage you to always ask for skin-to-skin; most of the time the answer will be, absolutely!