A Guiding Hand for Families in Special Care Nurseries - Digital - Book - Page 44
Special Care Nursery (SCN)
Tips for Dads with a
baby in the NICU or SCN
Being a dad in the neonatal unit is often stressful and overwhelming. Nothing can
prepare you for what it’s like to have a baby born premature or sick, or for the
rollercoaster of events that follow. It’s completely understandable to feel a mix of
emotions including anger, sadness, grief and guilt.
These tips are designed to help you focus on the things you can control to look after
yourself, your partner and your baby.
BE PROACTIVE
GET INVOLVED IN YOUR BABY’S CARE
You might feel quite helpless in the hospital but there are
lots of things you can do:
You can have a powerful impact on your baby’s health
and development with the love and care you provide.
Here’s how:
• Bond with your baby through kangaroo care or by
singing and reading to them.
• Take photos/videos of your baby to share with your
partner and extended family members.
• Get to know the staff and equipment in the NICU/SCN.
Ask questions to become as informed as possible.
• Ask your social worker for services that may benefit you.
• Talk to your employer about flexible work arrangements
or extended leave.
• Be there for your partner – keep talking and checking in.
• Connect with others going through the same
experience, e.g. via LLTF support groups.
• Spend as much time as you can with your baby.
• Handle your baby gently. Hold their hand or put your
hand on their back, head or bottom and feel them
breathe.
• Learn how they like to be soothed and held, and how
noise affects them.
• Talk or sing softly, say ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ and read
stories to your baby.
• Hold your baby and do kangaroo care often.
• Learn to change nappies and bath your baby in such a
way that they know it’s you.
• Share how you’re feeling with someone you trust – this
can help to reduce stress and lighten the load.
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF
• Plan ahead for when baby comes home, e.g. a
supply of freezer meals and a roster for help with
domestic chores.
It’s important to take care of your own physical and
emotional health so you can be there for your partner
and baby. Try to:
• Maintain a routine.
• Prioritise adequate sleep.
Scan the QR
code for more
information.
• Reduce stress with regular exercise.
• Eat nutritious meals and snacks.
• Make time for relaxation, e.g. read, watch TV, meditate.
• Avoid using alcohol, medications or other drugs to
manage the situation.
• Be mindful of your own feelings and needs.
If you’re not coping, talk to other parents, friends
or health professionals.
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation | Supporting Families of Premature & Sick Babies
lifeslittletreasures.org.au
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