These tiny teddies are helping premmies in the sweetest way

Who would have thought that a hand-knitted octopus would have such a huge and important impact on premature babies?

But they do. 

In fact, they act as little companions for these tiny infants and help them feel safe. 

Originally started by the Danish Octo Project in 2013, it is believed the shape of the toy reminds babies of the umbilical cord, which helps them feel secure.

And since then, 21936 sputters (as they are affectionately known as) have been delivered to hospitals thanks to the charity. 

Poole Hospital in Dorset, who have been using these toys in the NICU, are now asking everyone to get their knitting needles out and whip up a few octopuses – so every baby has one. 

If you do have a spare few hours to knit one, the hospital are asking they are made from 100 percent cotton (so they can be washed at very high temperatures) and that the tentacles are no longer than 22cm. 

Premature babies at Poole hospital are being given little crochet octopuses to help make them feel safe and… https://t.co/UYLKCgt9Rt

— MAMA Academy (@MAMAAcademy) January 27, 2017

So why not get a few other mums and organise a crochet party instead of your usual coffee morning? Any excuse for a get-together, really. 

The little toys are a great idea (and pretty cute) and it's definitely something we'd love to see catch on over here. 

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