NICU Parenting Program
Having a new baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be a stressful time. It can be both worrisome and exciting. New parents may feel overwhelmed, have lots of questions, and wonder how family members and close friends can be included. Fortunately, no one has to live through this experience alone.
The NICU Parenting Program pairs families just like yours with trained former NICU parents. A caring volunteer can help you with questions like
- How can I have a normal life with my baby in the NICU?
- How can I make others understand what I am going through?
- Why do friends act differently?
NICU parents can take advantage of one or more of the activities sponsored by the NICU Parenting Program.
- Support at home – Your NICU volunteer can stay in contact for several months after your baby goes home.
- Sharing Through Education and Parent Support (STEPS) – You will be invited to join the STEPS group while your baby is in the NICU. It meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month in the NICU Family Waiting area to review helpful topics, such as understanding your baby's signals, taking care of yourself while caring for your baby, and getting ready for baby's homecoming.
- Parenting classes – Learn about important topics such as growth and development, early discipline, legal and financial planning, and CPR. These classes are available for all parents, although registration and a fee are required. Call Beaumont's Physician Referral Service at 1-800-633-7377 for more information.
Signing Up for the NICU Parenting Program
New parents are contacted by the NICU Parenting Program Coordinator while visiting their baby. If we miss you, use the NICU Parenting Program form in the Parenting Program box located in the NICU Family Waiting area. Or feel free to call or e-mail parentingprogram@beaumonthospitals.com us at any time.
For more information, contact the NICU Parenting Program office by calling 248-898-3230 or send an e-mail to parentingprogram@beaumonthospitals.com.
24-hour-a-day baby care advice and support are available at 248-898-5398.
To learn more, click on these links.
Volunteering for the Parenting Program
Reach the Parenting Program offices Monday–Friday,
8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at 248-898-3230.