Having a new baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be a
stressful time. It can be both worrisome and exciting. New parents may
feel overwhelmed, have lots of questions, and wonder how family members
and close friends can be included. Fortunately, no one has to live
through this experience alone.
The NICU Parenting Program provides support for families just like yours from trained former NICU parents. A caring volunteer can help you with questions like:
- How can I have a normal life with my baby in the NICU?
- How can I make others understand what I am going through?
- Why do friends act differently?
NICU parents can take advantage of one or more of the activities sponsored by the NICU Parenting Program.
- NICU parent support at home – Your NICU volunteer can stay in contact for several months after your baby goes home.
- Sharing Through Education and Parent Support (STEPS) – You will be
invited to join the STEPS group while your baby is in the NICU. It meets
on the first and third Wednesday of each month in the NICU Family
Waiting area to review helpful topics, such as understanding your baby's
signals, taking care of yourself while caring for your baby, and
getting ready for baby's homecoming.
- NICU parenting classes
– Learn about important topics such as growth and development, early
discipline, legal and financial planning, and CPR. These classes are
available for all parents, although registration and a fee are required.
Call Beaumont's Physician Referral Service at 1-800-633-7377 for more
information.
Signing Up for the NICU Parenting Program
New parents are contacted by the NICU Parenting Program Coordinator
while visiting their baby. If we miss you, use the NICU Parenting
Program form in the Parenting Program box located in the NICU Family
Waiting area. Or feel free to call or email us at any time.