All of the following ideas are based on the belief that having a baby in the nurseries is a very stressful time for families and that other children in the family feel the pain of worry too. We need to love and nurture these precious children with activities and experiences that demonstrate our love for them. The experience of prematurity can be made easier for children when they understand what is going on and the purpose of all the activity around our fragile new babies. While each NICU may differ with its rules regarding sibling involvement, their need to be involved is very important. Even though not all of these activities will be possible in every NICU, I encourage parents to consult with staff about ways to actively and positively involve children in the care and celebration of their siblings' fragile beginnings.
Some suggestions Try to keep to as many routines as possible.
Keep up the playgroup visits, the Kindergym, the playing with friends. Mark off on the calendar the days that baby is in hospital, view it positively and say that everyday that baby is in hospital is one day closer to baby coming home. Make a brag book for the sibling to take to school etc. It could contain a photo of their first cuddle with baby or baby's footprints, the hospital information book, a tiny nappy etc. It could form a morning talk.