A new chapter begins at launch of baby reading scheme
A new initiative has been launched aimed at encouraging families to read to their babies every day – even the tiniest ones in intensive care.
The Neonatal unit (NNU) at Southend Hospital are keen to showcase the powerful effects of reading to newborns and how it supports brain development, helps build early language and communication skills and strengthens the bond between parents and their newborns.
Tanya James, Practice Development Sister at Southend NNU. “This isn’t just about books – it’s about bonding, comfort, and connection. By starting early we hope this scheme helps our tiniest patients turn the page on a brighter future with lifelong benefits.
“Reading to your baby can calm both baby and parent, and it helps build that all-important relationship from the start.”
The unit celebrated the fun-filled launch of education resources for patients and staff with babies dressed as storybook characters from The Three Little Pigs and staff as Red Riding Hood and The Big Bad Wolf.
They also shared cakes and book packs with families, which included a tiny vest that says: ‘I’m ready for my next chapter’.
Laura Smith, from Canvey Island, said: “I’m so glad to see happening as it’s a great activity for parents to do together, it also really helps create a calming environment for both mum and baby.”
The scheme is an extension of the World Book Day celebrations earlier this year, which marked the start of baby reading in neonatal units across the East of England. Southend Hospital is now taking the lead in developing this further, with trained staff, a growing library of baby books which will be accessible 24 hours a day on the unit and a strong focus on family-centred care.
The initiative reflects guidance from the East of England Neonatal Operational Delivery Network, which highlights the many benefits of reading in the neonatal setting, including improved infant stability, reduced stress for parents and better long-term communication outcomes for children.
Launching at Southend Hospital, the initiative will then expand to Basildon and Broomfield Hospitals, all part of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, helping make reading part of everyday care for all neonatal babies.
Lindsay Carpenter-Oliver, Vice Chair for Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership, said: “We are so excited to have seen this project develop and to see its launch. It is so important, not only for babies development, but also it gives parents the opportunity to do some ‘normal parenting’ with their baby when they may not have a chance to do much else, this is such a special activity. We look forward to supporting this across Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.”