International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day

Next celebratedSaturday, May 15, 2027

On International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day, let's spread the love and benefits of skin-to-skin contact for newborns and their parents!

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEMay 15

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

On May 15, we celebrate a special day that promotes the power of skin-to-skin contact between parents and their newborn babies – International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day! This day was first established in 2011 by the European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) to create awareness about kangaroo care and its benefits for premature infants. The practice, named after how kangaroos carry their young in their pouches, has been proven to improve bonding between parents and babies, as well as aid in the baby's growth and development. So let's spread the word about this wonderful way of caring for our little ones and give them all the love they deserve on this special day.

TIMELINE

International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day Timeline

Kangaroo Care Origin

Kangaroo Care was developed by Drs. Edgar Rey and Hector Martinez in Colombia, as a method to keep premature babies warm due to lack of incubators.

First Study on Kangaroo Care

The first study on the effectiveness of Kangaroo Care was conducted and results showed improved heart rate, temperature regulation, and shorter hospital stays in preterm infants.

Kangaroo Care Goes International

Kangaroo Care was introduced to Sweden, marking the start of its spread to other countries around the world.

US Adoption

The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed Kangaroo Care, encouraging its practice in neonatal intensive care units across the United States.

WHO Recommendation

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended Kangaroo Care as a routine practice for neonatal care.

First Kangaroo Care Day

The European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) established International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day, celebrated on May 15th, to promote this beneficial practice worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day

Wear Kangaroo-themed clothing

Show your support for kangaroo care by dressing up in kangaroo-inspired outfits or accessories. This could be a fun way to raise awareness and start conversations about the importance of kangaroo care.

SPREAD

Spread the word on social media

Use your social media platforms to educate others about kangaroo care and its benefits. Share informative articles, personal stories, or even create your own post about why kangaroo care is important to you.

ATTEND

Attend a kangaroo care event

Check if there are any local events or seminars being held in honor of International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day. Attend these events to learn more about kangaroo care and connect with others who are passionate about it.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a NICU

Many NICUs (neonatal intensive care units) have kangaroo care programs in place. Consider volunteering your time to help facilitate these programs and provide support to families who are practicing kangaroo care with their baby.

DONATE

Donate to a kangaroo care organization

There are numerous organizations that support kangaroo care and provide resources for families and healthcare professionals. Consider making a donation to one of these organizations in honor of International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day is Important

It encourages family involvement in neonatal care

Kangaroo care involves not just the parent, but also other family members in caring for the baby. This promotes bonding and creates a nurturing environment that is essential for a premature or sick infant's development. By raising awareness about kangaroo care, we can encourage more families to actively participate in their baby's special care needs.

It promotes a crucial aspect of baby bonding and care

International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day is dedicated to spreading awareness about skin-to-skin contact between a parent/caregiver and a premature or sick newborn. This simple yet powerful act has been proven to have numerous benefits for both the baby and the parent, including improved physical and emotional well-being.

It brings attention to the needs of preterm babies and their families

Preterm birth is a global issue that affects millions of babies and their families every year. By observing International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day, we can remind people of the unique challenges that they face, such as increased risk for health complications and the need for specialized care. This can help drive better support and resources for those affected.