It’s normal to feel uncertain or overwhelmed when your baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). But even if you can’t hold or feed them right away, there are still several meaningful ways you support them.

“NICU parents sometimes feel helpless, but there’s so much they can do that really helps their babies grow stronger,” says Nebraska Medicine neonatal nurse practitioner supervisor Sarah Newman, NNP.

Below, Sarah shares seven simple ways to care for your baby during their NICU stay.

7 ways to care for your baby in the NICU

Even the smallest acts can make a big difference. Here are some simple ways to stay involved in your baby’s daily care:

1. Be present – Even if your baby is in an incubator or connected to monitors, your presence alone can be comforting and help strengthen your bond.
2. Talk or sing softly – Your baby knows your voice. A gentle song or even a soft hum can help soothe and stabilize them.
3. Bring in personal items – A swaddle blanket, family photo or small stuffed animal can help make your baby’s space feel more familiar and comforting.
4. Pump and provide breast milk – Even if your baby isn’t feeding by mouth yet, your breast milk supports their growth and can be given to them in other ways, such as through a feeding tube. Every drop makes a difference.
5. Gently touch your baby – Ask your NICU nurse about “hand hugs” or containment holds — gentle, supportive touches that won’t overstimulate your baby.
6. Provide hands-on support – When your baby is stable, your NICU nurse will guide you in providing hands-on care, such as diaper changes, temperature checks and “kangaroo care.”
7. Keep a journal – Recording milestones, feedings and daily moments can help you process this experience and celebrate your baby’s progress.

You're not alone

Nebraska Medicine’s Newborn Intensive Care Unit combines cutting-edge technology with a compassionate, family-centered approach. Our team will show you how to safely participate in your baby’s care and offer emotional support along the way. 

“Our goal is to make sure every parent feels confident and connected to their baby, even in an unfamiliar setting like the NICU,” Sarah says. “We encourage questions and celebrate every step forward together.”