[ad_1]
One of the first things you hear when you tell people you’re pregnant is to write down your ideal birth plan and then tear it up. I always thought it was silly until I found myself in the NICU with premature babies born at 28 and 29 weeks not once, but twice. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, or know someone who has been, you know how traumatic, exhausting and stressful that time was for new parents – many of whom had an unexpected caesarean section and were unable to hold their newborn. with so many unknowns lying in their arms and in front of them. I wanted to share eight ways to care for mothers with premature babies, things that have been kindly and lovingly done for me by my family and friends, as well as what many in our DoSayGive community have recommended.
These will not only be welcome, but also extremely helpful and thoughtful – such a blessing in the midst of uncertainty!
1. Send food or help.
If it’s a couple’s first child, think about it. send a food gift. Food delivery gift cards to Uber Eats or DoorDash are great to use at their own convenience, as are gift cards to restaurants near the neonatal intensive care unit. It’s always nice to take a break and walk to get some non cafeteria food!
If they have other children, consider sending home meals for the older children in the household. Not having to think about it is such a great gift. You can also create a meal schedule for older kids to take care of meals or groceries or have one ready when they get home. Must read for tips on food train etiquette this post!
2. Offer to put my mother in a car.
After a cesarean section (which gives birth to many premature babies), new mothers may not be able to drive for up to six weeks. While my daughters were in NICU, my friends offered to take me to the hospital, which was helpful not only for transportation but also for the company. Giving birth early can feel lonely, especially if they don’t allow visitors – which is why these conversations made so much sense. An Uber gift card is also a nice gesture if you can’t offer to drive.
3. Send thoughtful gifts.
Many people aren’t sure what kind of gift is best for a preterm baby, and there are some gifts that definitely top the “give it” list. I shared my favorite gifts for preemie babies this post — from board books (easy to wipe!), soft baby blankets (to keep them comfortable in incubators) and nursing wraps. make sure to give you read! Otherwise, Amazon gift cards are always helpful and welcome. Like preemie baby clothes and kiss kiss My personal favorite for preemie babies.
4. Gift hospital parking or a valet card.
Hospital parking can be expensive, so a handful of passes can be a nice gesture or something to add to a gift basket. Better? Vale passes! After all, these parents deserve the royal treatment!
5. Give a gift card to the hospital gift shop.
The hospital gift shop usually has lots of starter items, clothing, and grooming supplies—plus, it’s super useful. Tip: You can also call and have the gift shop prepare a baby gift to deliver to the NICU.
6. Offer to help older children.
Caring for and loving older children who are often unable to come to the hospital and worry about their parents and new siblings is a real gift! You can offer babysitting so that both parents can be in the NICU at the same time (we always teamed up!). Going to school and extracurricular activities are helpful, as are helping with homework when needed.
7. Be sensitive to parents’ concerns.
Preemie parents are often on high alert when it comes to viruses. So, walk lightly when you want to hold the baby in your arms when he gets home, and don’t be offended if asked to take off your shoes or wash your hands. If you have been exposed to a virus, be open to parents and delay your visit.
8. Don’t stop offering help when baby gets home.
When baby comes home, all responsibility falls on the shoulders of the parents – which can be a shock after months of hands-on NICU nurses. If the baby is coming home with oxygen or other medical needs, this can be an even more stressful time. All of the above is still useful!
If you have any other tips or ideas to share, please leave a comment below! I would love to read them!
lee
[ad_2]
Source link