The March of Dimes Walkamerica to fight prematurity is a great way to get kids involved in helping others.
Walk for premature babies. According to the March of Dimes, “Premature birth is the #1 cause of newborn death. It has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S., endangering the lives of more than half a million babies.” (March of Dimes Website, 2007). In addition, many babies who are born too early suffer or are at risk for medical complications or developmental problems. On Sunday April 29th, thousands of people will join the WalkAmerica 2007 to raise money to help prevent prematurity and provide support for these most fragile of babies and their families. This is a great opportunity for youth to get involved in an important cause.
Education. You might want to have kids learn a little bit about prematurity ahead of time. What does it mean for a child’s future to be born at 26, 28, 30 weeks? What kinds of risks exist for low birth weight babies? What special medical treatment do these babies require? How does parenting a preemie differ from parenting a full term baby? Getting kids talking about these issues helps them develop empathy and a sense of urgency to get involved. Check out the March of Dimes website or Prematurity.
Taking it to the next step. Kids who really take to the concept might be interested in developing other service projects that benefit premature babies. Here are some idea starters:
- Some neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have “holding programs” whereby volunteers come in and spend time giving kangaroo care (holding babies skin to skin to help regulate body temperature) to babies who might not have the family support needed to provide this crucial therapy. Check your local NICU to see if they have such a program, and what it would take to get your kids involved.
- Kids can earn money to purchase and assemble NICU care packages. Some good things to include: preemie clothing (preferably with front or side snaps to allow for the many wires), beanie babies (used to help position preemies), “Mothers Milk” tea for nursing moms (available at health stores), and gas or convenience stores card (for parents who may be spending a lot of time on the road to and from the hospital). Again, have kids use their imagination!
- Teens can also fundraise to purchase needed items for the NICU: for example rocking chairs, small refrigerators, coffee, or blankets. Kids can brainstorm other ideas as their knowledge of preemies and their needs grows.
- Kids may also want to get involved in Prematurity Awareness Month activities. The March of Dimes also has info on this November event.
Skill development. Involvement can build skills in the following areas:
- Empathy. There aren’t too many creatures more vulnerable than a one or two pound baby. Kids naturally want to help, and this cause provides lots of opportunity to do that.
- Organization. Kids will need to keep assignments, tasks, and timelines in order. Model for them how to stay organized to see a project through: the end goal is for kids to assume most of the ownership.
- Responsibility. Service projects require varying levels of responsibility. Match students with tasks suited to their interests and abilities.
- Self-esteem. Kids feel a great sense of satisfaction from being able to use their talents and skills to help others. Especially for kids used to being on the receiving end of help, it’s an empowering feeling.
For more information. For information about initiatives to help premature babies, personal stories, and Walkamerica 2007 registration information, contact the March of Dimes.
