Heartwarming program brings parents closer to premature babies

The Heart-to-Heart program aims to strengthen the bond between premature or sick babies and their parents with parents wearing a small, fabric heart against their skin for a period which absorbs their unique scent. The heart is then placed near their baby in the NICU.

The program's philosophy is rooted in the power of familiar scents.

“Sense of smell is one of the earliest senses to develop and continues to develop after birth. It helps a baby recognise their mother,” says Amy Ellis, NICU Clinical Nurse Unit Manager.

“Having the mother’s scent on a heart that is placed near baby can help support the baby’s sleep, improve responses to pain and help soothe and settle the baby,” says Amy.

Karla, mother of 34-week premature baby Jayla, shared her deeply moving experience with the program.

"I couldn't touch her some of the time. The heart was the only way I could have a constant connection with her," says Karla.

Karla and her partner wore the heart daily, ensuring Jayla was always surrounded by familiar scents.

"I cherished wearing the heart, feeling a constant connection to her. Her dad, her brothers, her sisters – everyone wore it. It ensured Jayla was always surrounded by familiar scents from home," says Karla.

"It's just such a simple connection. When I put it in her cot, I would watch her nestle into it and I knew she felt a sense of comfort and safety”.

The Heart-to-Heart program is a simple way to provide emotional support to families while strengthening the bond between parents and their vulnerable newborns.

Want to Contribute?

Anyone can participate in this meaningful initiative. Here's how to make your own Heart-to-Heart:

• Materials: Clean, soft cotton flannelette fabric.
• Instructions:
  • Cut out two heart-shaped pieces using the provided template (standard size: 10-15cm).
  • Sew the hearts together with the right sides facing inwards, leaving a small opening.
  • Turn the heart right side out and sew the opening closed.
• Preparation:
  • Wash the hearts separately using scent-free detergent.
  • Air dry completely.
  • Place sets of three hearts in a sealed ziplock bag.

Deliver your completed hearts to:

Nepean Hospital NICU Level 6, Tower A Derby Street Kingswood NSW 2747

Every heart donated brings comfort and support to families facing the challenges of neonatal care.

Note: This article provides a concise overview of the Heart-to-Heart program. For complete instructions and safety guidelines, please refer to the original information sheets: