Meet Zakariya

• Baby Saves

• 04.14.26

“I found Count the Kicks on TikTok while I was pregnant. I kept seeing other moms talk about it, and something about it just stuck with me. I decided to try it, and it honestly became such a special part of my day. It wasn’t just about tracking, it gave me quiet moments to sit, slow down, and really connect with my baby.

Using Count the Kicks played such a meaningful role in the safe arrival of my baby. It not only helped ease my anxiety, but it also allowed me to slow down, take a step back from everything, and truly be present with my baby. Each time I sat down to count his movements, it became a quiet moment just for us. It helped me bond with him on a deeper level and learn his unique patterns, when he was most active and when he was more calm. That connection made me feel more in tune with him every single day.

Because I had learned what was normal for him, I was able to recognize when something didn’t feel right. When I noticed a change in his movement patterns, I trusted my instincts and went to the hospital to get checked. 

Speaking up to my provider made all the difference in my story. After being assessed, the doctors diagnosed me with preeclampsia and made the decision to induce my baby early to keep both of us safe. Looking back, I truly believe that paying attention to his movements and advocating for myself helped ensure he arrived safely.

I delivered my baby, Zakariya, on Oct. 5, 2025. I will always be grateful for the care I received, for those quiet moments of connection, and for the tool that helped me listen when my baby needed me most. I’m so grateful I listened to my instincts and went in when I did. That decision made all the difference for both of us.

Going in when I did allowed the doctors to catch my preeclampsia early and make the decision to induce, which kept both me and Zakariya safe. It really showed me how important it is to trust yourself as a parent.

I would tell any expecting parent to really trust themselves. Kick counting isn’t just numbers, it’s about building that bond and understanding your baby. Those little moments matter more than you think. And if anything ever feels different, even if you can’t explain it, go get checked. It’s always worth it for your peace of mind and your baby’s safety” -Mona M., Zakariya’s Mom