Cathaoirleach Councillor Dónal Gilroy visited Sligo University Hospital today to mark World Prematurity Day, showing his support for the Baby Talks initiative alongside staff from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Sligo Libraries.
Cathaoirleach Supports Baby Talks Initiative
Cathaoirleach Supports Baby Talks Initiative at Sligo University Hospital
The Baby Talks project focuses on improving the neurodevelopment outcomes of newborns through reading, speaking, and singing to babies in the NICU and beyond. Research shows that these simple, loving interactions can enhance neurodevelopment, improve cardiorespiratory stability, and support the mental well-being of both infants and parents.
Reading with a young child, sharing bedtime stories, or enjoying story time with a toddler while feeding a baby are powerful ways to nurture early development.
To support families, Sligo Libraries offers a free guide, Reading with Your Child, filled with practical tips and suggestions. Parents can also sign up for the popular My First Library Card, available at all Sligo Library branches.
Membership is free and open to all. Parents of babies and young children are warmly encouraged to join Sligo Libraries and explore the resources available at www.sligolibrary.ie.