A Guiding Hand for Families in NICU and Special Care Nurseries - Digital - Book - Page 66
Family and friends
The visits should be planned with the age of the child in mind. The length
of the visit should be appropriate to the child’s attention span. Often very
young children only want to stay a few minutes. Children over 5 may need
more time to feel comfortable, as they are more aware of how the baby is
different from full term babies; they may need to be encouraged to interact
with the baby.
It is important to note that siblings are not able to visit if they are unwell
(temperature, colds or gastro). If you are unsure, check with the nursery
staff first.
Recommended books for siblings:
• My Colourful Journey Our team at LLTF helped
to develop this colouring book that explains the
neonatal unit in a way that is suitable for children
aged 2+ years.
• My Brother Tom by Michelle Worthington.
Both books are available from our website at
www.lifeslittletreasures.org.au. Find more books at:
www.prematurity.org
Grandparents
Parents of premature and sick babies may be shocked, overwhelmed and
confused by the situation they find themselves in. Their parents, the baby’s
grandparents, often feel exactly the same. They have looked forward to
the birth of their grandchild with joy and expectation and their dreams
of a happy birth are shattered as well. The shattered expectations of
grandparents are as much for their own child as for the newborn baby.
There are many things grandparents can do
to help their child and grandchild. This could
be as simple as sitting with mum as she feeds
their baby or offering to stay with the baby so
parents/carers can spend some time grabbing
a quick break together.
If you are a grandparent and struggling, talk to
the nursery staff or call Life’s Little Treasures
support line on 1300 697 736 to discuss your
concerns.
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation | Supporting Families of Premature & Sick Babies
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