Parents know what’s best - and that's just as true for their baby in hospital

Six-month-old Fionn Plunkett can’t sing or laugh due to a medical condition. He is being treated in Crumlin children’s hospital, where the psychological team prioritises the central role his parents play in his care and development

Ashlinn Plunkett and six-month-old son Fionn. Picture: Brendan Bergin

WHEN you bring your newborn home, you want to know who this little baby is. What does he/she like, dislike? How is he/she speaking to you? And you can explore and enjoy these questions in the relaxed safe cocoon of home. In that early phase, you can luxuriate in discovering what your baby is revealing about himself.

But what if your newborn can’t come home straightaway? What if your child is very unwell, has an underlying condition and needs surgery?