Hezekiah, 11 months old, MO

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Hezekiah is a sweet boy in foster care with his older brother. He loves to pet the family dogs and giggles endlessly when his big brother dances for him. Despite facing developmental delays, Hezekiah works hard in physical and occupational therapy to build his strength and skills so he can catch up with his peers. His determination and bright spirit shine through in everything he does.

A baby carrier could really help Hezekiah, a baby who was born addicted to drugs. Babies like him often feel very sensitive and have a tough time managing their feelings because they go through withdrawal. Using a baby carrier can make him feel cozy, similar to being in the womb. The snug fit and gentle movements can help calm him down and reduce his stress. Being close to his foster mother while in the carrier is important too. He can feel her touch, hear her voice, and smell her scent, which helps them bond and builds trust, especially important for a baby who has faced challenges early in life. Holding him upright in the carrier can also help with his digestion and breathing, which is useful since babies with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome often struggle with feeding and breathing. This close contact encourages better brain development, leading to better sleep and emotional health. Over time, this bonding can help offset some of the negative effects of his early experiences, giving him a strong foundation of safety, love, and connection.