About 14.4% of babies are admitted into the NICU every year. Having a baby in the NICU is a curveball for many parents. If you want to help out, read on to learn how you can provide NICU support for parents.
What is the NICU?
Gifts for NICU parents
If you want to assemble a free care package for NICU parents, we broke down the essentials below.
1. Food
From home-cooked meals you made yourself to meal delivery kits, this kind gesture will be a comforting break from sterile cafeteria food. Don’t forget the utensils!
2. Coins
Will always come in handy for the vending machines in hospitals.
3. A journal
This can provide a safe space for parents to write out their feelings or take notes when nurses or doctors talk to them.
4. A phone charger
Essential, so parents can stay in touch.
5. Books or magazines
Reading materials can help parents keep their minds busy while waiting in the hospital.
6. A pillow and eye mask
Small luxuries can help make staying in the hospital a little more comfortable.
7. A blanket or sweater
This will keep parents warm when they’re staying in a chilly room.
8. Ear plugs
Surprisingly useful in blocking out the jarring alarms in the NICU.
9. Snacks
Easy-to-grab foods like protein bars or trail mix and bottled water can help parents stay sustained.
10. Lotion
Can be helpful because there’s a lot of handwashing going on in the NICU — especially during COVID.
