What are Finnish Baby Boxes?
Finland during the 1930s and 1940s, had a high infant mortality rate. Social and health care policies would change to provide every newborn a box containing all of the contents necessary for the first months of life. The box itself met regulations for a bassinet and came with a mattress to be placed inside. Snowsuits, books, clothes, diapers and hygiene items and toys were included in the bundle with the rationale that every baby should have the same start in life.
Decades later, Finland now has one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world. Many believe that it is the program created with these baby boxes that has helped with this change. Mothers who wanted to receive a baby box must show up to regular prenatal visits with their health care provider before 4 months gestation. These prenatal visits, coupled with the lessened financial burden to families undoubtedly contribute to the infant health outcomes.
These boxes have even changed throughout the years, adjusting with the research. In the last 10 years, bottles have been taken out of the boxes to encourage breastfeeding, and cloth diapers have been reintroduced.
What about Alberta's baby boxes?
The University of Calgary's Nursing Research Department received a $500,000 grant in 2014 from the provincial government to implement a pilot project similar to that of the Finnish baby boxes. These boxes are similar to those which are offered in Finland - the boxes can also be used as bassinets. The program is a little different in that along with the boxes, and prenatal healthcare checkups, the parents must have a mentor to accompany them through their childbearing year.
The mentor must be a person in their social circle who is not a parent to the child. The mentor must check in regularly with the family during pregnancy and in the 6 months after birth. This type of support will undoubtedly create wonderful results.
Researched has shown that women who have limited social and support networks tend to be at a higher risk for prenatal and postpartum depression and mood disorders(1). A higher rate of breastfeeding and overall well-being comes to women who are able to share their experiences with others. I am very curious to see the effects of a mentor throughout pregnancy and parenthood in this project. I feel the effects will be likely positive.
What do you think about Alberta's new initiative?
I would love to hear more about what you think in an email or in the comment section below.