Here you are in the NICU, and chances are good that you can
quickly think of at least a dozen places you’d rather spend the upcoming
holidays. But if you know your baby will be here for at least part of the next
month, here are some ideas to help make the season a little more bearable:
1. Bring in a special outfit or blanket for your baby. If
he/she cannot yet wear clothes, maybe a festive hat, booties or bib would work.
If your baby is stable enough, you might be able to “pose” him or her in a
Christmas stocking — talk to your bedside nurse.
2. Write a special letter to your baby. Be sure to include
all your thoughts, hopes and dreams. Save it to read every year at holiday
time.
3. Bring in some small, non-electric decorations. Maybe a
festive bib or “Baby’s First Christmas” stocking and some Christmas balls, a
small menorah (no real candles), or any decorations appropriate or the holidays
you celebrate, but be sure they are washable or wipeable to prevent the spread
of germs. Have siblings make decorations (snowflakes, cards, etc.).
4. Bring in books about the holidays and read them to your
baby.
5. Don’t be afraid to take a day off from the NICU.
6. It’s ok to wish things were different. If it helps, think
about the special times you will share next year. Plan new family traditions.
7. If a big family gathering sounds overwhelming, just say
no.
8. Budget your time and stick to a schedule. If you have
other children, you will obviously want to spend time with them, too. Ask
friends and family to stop by and visit the baby and/or help entertain your
older children.
9. Come to the parent dinners and other groups sponsored by
the NICU. There are lots of parents who feel just like you.
About Team NICU 101

CHKD is home to the region’s largest and most sophisticated neonatal intensive care unit, certified by the state as a subspecialty nursery. We provide intensive care for high-risk, critically-ill neonates and care for approximately 500 babies a year.