Having a baby in the NICU is an emotional whirlwind. It’s a place where time feels frozen, where beeping monitors and tiny bodies become the center of focus. For parents with other children at home, the weight of this experience is even greater. Balancing time, energy, and emotions between the NICU and children at home can feel overwhelming.
Older children may sense the change in the family’s dynamic, even if they do not fully understand why their sibling is not home.
There is no perfect way to navigate this season—offering oneself grace is vital.
Communicate. Communicating in simple, reassuring ways and involving them in small acts of connection—such as drawing pictures or choosing a special blanket for their sibling—can help them feel included rather than distant.
Accept help. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a necessity. Whether it comes from family, friends, or NICU parent communities, accepting help with daily tasks such as meals, school drop-offs, or child care can provide the space needed to be present where it matters most.
Self care.Self care, even in small moments, plays a crucial role in sustaining strength. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a brief walk, or deep breaths between hospital visits, these small acts of self-kindness make a difference. One cannot pour from an empty cup.
Despite the challenges, the presence of children at home can also offer comfort. Their laughter, hugs, and daily routines provide a sense of normalcy, grounding parents in moments of joy and familiarity amidst uncertainty.
As you navigate this season, remember: Courage does not always roar. Sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” – Mary Anne Radmacher. Give yourself the same compassion you offer your children, knowing that each day is a new opportunity to find strength and hope.
Strength is found in the small moments, and every step forward is a victory.
