Life with a Preemie

A NICU stay, no matter how long, can be a stressful and scary time. The NICU may seem like a place of uncertainty and for new preemie parents it can be overwhelming. The alarms and equipment may seem unbearable to be around but the milestones our preemies accomplish make each hour in the NICU worth while. As preemie parents we tend to appreciated and look forward to the NICU milestone, some that parents of full term babies may not recognize. Our little ones accomplish so much in the short time they are in the NICU and having others to share in the joy and setbacks with can make your NICU stay easier.


Tips and advice from former NICU parents

Murray Family  

* Take pictures and video!! Take pictures of EVERYTHING. As much as you might not want to you will be thankful for it later.

* Journal or keep track of daily accomplishments. It will amaze you later how far your little one came.

* Keep one of the first diapers your baby has in the NICU for your keepsake box.

* If you can, find a professional photographer to take pictures during your time in the NICU. Check out Pictures of Hope Foundation, link is on our Resource page.

* Get hand and foot print art made while they are still tiny.

* Get to know the nurses and other NICU families. Having that connection will make leaving the NICU easier.

* Don't be afraid to ask questions or help with the care of your baby.

* Start a blog or caringbridge. This is a great way to journal and keep family and friends in the loop.

* Know that it is ok to go home. It is ok to get some sleep. Make sure to take time for yourself. You are going through just as much as your baby, even if you don't recognized it. You need to make time for you to recover too.


Home Life

The words, "going home" mean so much to preemie parents. Many parents wait weeks or months to hear those little words. Home life with a preemie brings new joys and new fears. We understand the struggles new parents face and are here to offer our support.


Advice for going home

* Don't be afraid to ask for help. Don't worry about cleaning the house, or catching up with friends. Focus on yourself and your little one.

twinsdpp* Sleep when the baby sleeps.It is important that primary caregivers get rest so that they will be in the most positive frame of mind possible.

* Don't expect your baby to be full term just because the are home. Follow their adjusted age when considering development.

* Stay away from public places during RSV season.

* Play on the floor and read books, sing songs and laugh.

* Remember to breathe. Include other family members in caring for the baby.

* Take pictures and keep notes of all the first your child does. Many times things get hectic and parents forget to write down the date that their child does something for the first time. Write it on a piece of paper and throw it in a box and keep it in the baby's closet.

* Don't buy too many of one size clothes or diapers.

* Find someone you trust to watch your child and go out for some "me time" when you feel comfortable enough to leave your child.

* If friends or family ask what they can do to help, having home made meals frozen are a great way to help out!