Ensuring that the baby will have the best start in life, the Scottish government has piloted a three-month baby box handed to parents who gave birth to their child. This box consisted of clothes, towel and a poem by National Literature Laureate which parents are encouraged to read to their child.
Award-winning poet and novelist, Jackie Kay, wrote the Welcome Wee One poem in the box. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said in a press release that, "Scotland's Baby Box is a strong signal of our determination that every child, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life."
Published in the box for public use, you can read Kay's poem here.
The box was patterned after Finland's very own baby box which can also be used for babies to sleep in. Other than the poem, a baby's book is also given as an essential upon birth delivery. Moreover, some items that come with the box are mattresses, scratch mittens, rompers, baby wrap, digital ear thermometer and soother toys.
"Being a parent is the most important but also the most difficult job there is so it's important that parents get as much support as possible. The Box complements the existing services available to help babies and parents to thrive in the crucial early months," Sturgeon said.
However, the poem has received mixed criticism with some saying it could add pressure to the already 'vulnerable' mothers. According to The Times, Kay's poetry has sparked a debate on UK's parenting websites, Twitter and various social media accounts.
At Mums, various women have spoken up about the issue. One wrote, "They do know that hardly anyone in Scotland actually speaks like that?" while others have voiced out, "I think the whole thing is a waste of money and the poem is a bit twee. Definitely not suitable for many parents suffering from PND or similar."
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