For NICU and preemie families
NICU resources for parents
Having a baby in the NICU can feel overwhelming. We’ve been there. Here are the tips, terms, and trusted organizations we wish we’d had on day one.
Your first days in the NICU
Ask questions
No question is too small. Keep a notebook or phone note for questions, your baby’s weight, and updates from rounds.
Be part of the care
Ask the nurses how you can help, like diaper changes, feeding, or skin-to-skin time when your baby is ready.
Take care of you
Rest, eat, and drink water. Your baby needs you healthy for the long run. It’s okay to go home and sleep.
Accept help
Let friends bring meals, drive, or watch siblings. Small help adds up during long hospital days.
Celebrate small wins
First holding, an ounce gained, a tube removed. Every step forward matters.
You’re not alone
Talking with other NICU parents can make a big difference. See the support options below.
Common NICU terms
NICU: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a hospital unit for newborns who need extra medical care.
Preemie: a baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Isolette (incubator): an enclosed bed that keeps your baby warm and protected.
Kangaroo care: holding your baby skin-to-skin on your chest.
Feeding tube (NG or OG tube): a small tube through the nose or mouth that carries milk to the stomach.
CPAP: gentle air pressure through the nose that helps a baby breathe.
Bili lights (phototherapy): special lights used to treat jaundice.
Leads: small stickers on the chest that connect to monitors for heart rate and breathing.
Partner organizations
Organizations we trust
Chasing the Rainbows
A national nonprofit offering free, trauma-informed support for families facing infertility, pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and infant loss. Programs include daily virtual support groups, peer mentors, trauma therapy, and funeral assistance.
Virtual for families nationwide
(717) 801-1518 · info@chasingtherainbows.org
NayaCare
A Denver-area fourth trimester specialty clinic that brings care to your doorstep, with in-home and virtual newborn medical care, maternal wellness checks, and lactation support. A helpful next step once your baby comes home.
(720) 815-5922 · concierge@nayacare.org
Visit NayaCareSupport for parents
Postpartum Support International
Support for parents facing stress, anxiety, or depression. Call or text the HelpLine at 1-800-944-4773.
postpartum.netNational Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Free, confidential support 24/7. Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).
If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 anytime.
Need help from Faith’s Footsies?
If your baby is in the NICU, reach out. We’ll do our best to help your family.
This page is for general information and support, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your baby’s care team. Faith’s Footsies is not responsible for the services of outside organizations.