Caring for Siblings While Your Baby Is in the NICU: A Guide for Parents
When your newborn requires a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), it can be an overwhelming experience for the entire family. While much of your attention is focused on your fragile infant, your older children also need reassurance and support during this difficult time. Finding ways to care for your NICU baby while maintaining a strong bond with their siblings can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can help them navigate this transition with love and understanding.
How a NICU Stay Affects Siblings
Siblings of a NICU baby may experience a range of emotions, from confusion and fear to jealousy and loneliness. Some common feelings include:
Separation Anxiety: They may feel sad or abandoned as parents spend long hours at the hospital.
Jealousy or Resentment: Older children may struggle to understand why the new baby requires so much attention.
Fear and Worry: Seeing parents stressed or hearing medical terms can create anxiety about the baby's health.
Changes in Routine: Disruptions in daily life can be unsettling, especially for younger children.
Supporting Siblings During NICU Life
While you may feel stretched thin, there are ways to ensure your older children feel supported and included in this journey.
1. Keep Communication Open
Use age-appropriate language to explain why the baby is in the NICU.
Allow them to ask questions and express their feelings.
Reassure them that they are loved and valued.
2. Maintain Routine and Normalcy
Stick to regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and school schedules as much as possible.
Lean on family members, friends, or babysitters to help provide stability at home.
3. Create Special One-on-One Time
Even short moments of dedicated attention can make a difference.
Plan simple activities like reading a book, taking a walk, or having a special meal together.
4. Involve Siblings in the NICU Journey
If allowed, let them visit the baby with proper guidance and preparation.
Show them pictures or videos of their new sibling and talk about progress.
Encourage them to create drawings or messages to decorate the NICU space.
5. Offer Emotional Support
Validate their feelings and remind them it’s okay to feel sad or frustrated.
Consider books or resources that explain NICU experiences in a child-friendly way.
Example: Ashley and Kolin’s book: It's a NICU World by Ashley O’Neil
If needed, seek support from a therapist or counselor.
Lean on Your Support System
Caring for multiple children while managing a NICU stay is not something you have to do alone. Accept help from loved ones, join a NICU parent support group, or reach out to a counselor if needed. Prioritizing your own well-being also helps you be a stronger, more present parent for all of your children.
Everyone Deserves Extra Grace During This Time
Your family’s NICU journey may be filled with ups and downs, but by providing reassurance, stability, and love, you can help your older children adjust to this temporary challenge. With patience and understanding, you will come through this experience stronger together.
At NEOwell, we understand the complexities of NICU life and the impact it has on the entire family. Follow us for more expert advice and compassionate support on your NICU journey.