This page is here to help you show up with heart, humility, and practical support for families facing one of the most challenging times of their lives. 

 

First, Know This 

• Leaving the hospital without your baby is incredibly difficult. Many parents describe it as one of the hardest days of their life. 

• Micro-preemies, babies born under 1lb. 12 oz (800 grams), often can't wear clothing until they reach around 3–4 pounds. 

• NICU days are unpredictable - emotions can swing between hope and heartbreak. Your understanding means everything. 

• Parents may not be responsive right away. Support unconditionally. 

• The NICU is not just a medical journey - it's an emotional marathon. 

 

Ways to Help 

 

Emotional Support 

• Listen without judgment. Let them talk, vent, or cry. Don’t try to fix it. Every NICU experience is unique. 

• Acknowledge their feelings. "That sounds really hard." goes a long way. 

• Offer encouragement and hope. Every milestone is significant! Gaining a few grams, first day to wear clothes, first bath, first feeding, etc. 

• Respect their privacy. Don’t show up unannounced; let them set the tone. 

• Keep checking in. A short text saying "Thinking of you" can make a tough day feel lighter. 

• Avoid unsolicited advice. Just be present. Presence > solutions. 

• How to Be A Good Friend To a NICU Mom – post by Bee Mighty Board Member, Michelle Moser 

 

Tangible Acts of Love 

• Start a Meal Train. Keep meals simple, disposable, and do not expect face time. Just drop and go. 

• Send cupcakes or treats to NICU nurses on behalf of the baby. These caregivers become family. 

• Offer to run errands, grocery shop, or pick up essentials. 

• Babysit siblings. Time in the NICU often means less time at home. 

• Do a load of laundry, walk the dog, clean the house. Small things = big relief. 

• NICU Blanket Drive (can link to Blanket Drive page) 

 

 

Thoughtful Gestures 

• NICU Milestone Baby Book. Regular baby books don't always reflect this journey. Look for options that track weight gains, first time off oxygen, kangaroo care moments, etc. 

• NICU Milestone Cards – cards they can put in/near baby’s isolette to capture important moments. 

• You could send a card or gift for big milestones like “first bottle,” “first bath,” or “discharge day.” 

• NICU Books – especially great for siblings who may not understand why baby isn’t coming home. 

• Bring coffee or a favorite treat to the hospital. Tiny joys matter. 

• Celebrate the baby while respecting the parent’s preferences. Acknowledge the child, but don’t overwhelm with gifts or questions. 

 

Helpful Resources 

• Notes of Hope – Send uplifting messages to NICU families across the country. 

• MealTrain.com – Coordinate food deliveries or care calendars. 

• NICU Awareness Resources – Learn more about what families are going through. 

 

Bee a Steady Presence 

NICU parents often feel isolated and emotionally drained. You don’t need to have the perfect words. You just need to be there - with patience, love, and an open heart. 

 

Have more ideas to support a NICU family? Want to share your own experience? 

Contact us — we would love to hear from you and your story of support!