Final Countdown & ? about Bridge/Cradle Care

kmkaull

The expectant mom we're matched with is due in almost 3 weeks!  She is doing great, and has been calling and emailing with updates on her appointments. I think she is going to go early--like any time.  She sounds very at peace and happy, and has been asking how we're preparing for the baby.  We just adore her!

 We are very hopeful and positive.  The baby will be in bridge care (agency foster care) for 2-3 weeks after his birth, until TPR is signed.  This is required by the county, which does no direct placements. 

Has anyone had the bridge care experience?  I know it will be ok, but it will be the longest 2 week wait ever!
 

 
 

crystalpopcorn

Wow!  You will be a mom soon! I have no experience with this, but I am wondering if you will be able to visit the baby in cradle care?

kmkaull

Yes, we will get to visit.  I am not sure about the etiquette yet.  Of course I'd like to move into their living room, but I'm guessing that's not quite appropriate.    We're thinking a few times a week because the baby will be 4 hours away.

 I'm trying not to stress too much about bonding.  I was thinking of getting our smell on a blanket, and keeping that with the baby.  Also, maybe one of those Sleep Sheep things that make white noise?  Might be nice to have a transition item?  Any other ideas to help bond?

 Thanks!  It has been great to see such happy stories on this board lately.  I can't believe it!

 

crystalpopcorn

kmkaull:

 I'm trying not to stress too much about bonding.  I was thinking of getting our smell on a blanket, and keeping that with the baby.  Also, maybe one of those Sleep Sheep things that make white noise?  Might be nice to have a transition item?  Any other ideas to help bond?

 

The blanket or stuffed animal is a good idea.  Just sleep with it for a while, so that it has your smell on it.  You can also make a tape of you or DH singing a lullaby or reading a story, and ask the cradle care parents to play it for the baby.

When you do visit, do Kangaroo care if you have a private place to visit with the baby.  This is when you place the naked (diaper only) baby on your bare chest and cover the baby with a blanket.  This is great for bonding, and it gets the baby used to your smell and the sound of your heartbeat.  Your husband can do it too. Do a google search on Kangaroo Care, and you will find a ton of information.

These are the types of things we did when Will was in the NICU, and they helped with bonding tremendously.  We didn't actually do the tape, but other parents who were not there as often did.  I hope this helps!

EmmieB

I have no advice. But I am really excited for you!

jacksjerseygirl

I have no personal experience with it, we opted to not work with states that required it.

I just wanted to wish you luck!

DAT1205

No advice just a lot of GOOD LUCK coming from me!!!!!

CaptainSerious

I, too, wanted to wish you all the luck in the world!

Honeydew1894

DAT1205:

No advice just a lot of GOOD LUCK coming from me!!!!!

Ditto this!

kmkaull

Thanks for the nice wishes.  I know all about kangaroo care, and agree that's a great idea!  I'll keep ya'll updated . . .