Navigating the NICU and Beyond
Welcoming your baby into the world is a moment filled with love, anticipation, and dreams. But if your child arrives early or has unexpected medical needs, that joy can quickly be accompanied by fear, uncertainty, and a sea of medical terms. If your newborn is spending time in the NICU, we want you to know this: you're not alone, and there's hope ahead.
At Encompass Family Support Services, we’re here to walk alongside you, offering compassionate support, helpful resources, and personalized services designed for families navigating life with a medically fragile baby or a new diagnosis.
Breathe—Your Emotions Are Valid
Whether your child’s diagnosis was expected or came suddenly, feeling overwhelmed, confused, or even relieved is completely normal. Take a deep breath. Every emotion you’re feeling matters. This is a tender and vulnerable time, and we’re here to meet you where you are.
Understanding Early Intervention
One of the first steps you can take is learning more about Early Intervention. This is a free, in-home visiting program in North Dakota that supports children from birth to age three who were born early, have experienced medical complications, or are showing signs of developmental delay.
The support is tailored specifically to your child and family’s needs. Services focus on encouraging development through simple, everyday routines—like playtime, diaper changes, and feeding.
Could My Child Qualify?
If your baby has a medical history that includes two or more of the following, they may be eligible for Early Intervention services:
Very low birth weight (under 1,500 grams)
Ventilator dependent for 72+ hours
Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Gestational age less than 32 weeks
Interventricular hemorrhage
Asphyxiation
ECMO
Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
Periventricular Leukomalacia
Even if your child wasn’t born prematurely, they may still qualify based on signs of developmental delay or a medical diagnosis. We’re happy to walk you through the process and help you explore your options.
Talk to Someone Who’s Been There
Sometimes, the best comfort comes from someone who truly understands. Our Encompass Experienced Parents, Heidi and Moe, have personally walked the NICU journey and know how overwhelming those early days can be. They’re here to offer encouragement, answer questions, and provide support from one parent to another.
Email Heidi: hkotchian@encompassfss.net
Email Moe: mswanson@encompassfss.net
Reach out any time—it’s free, informal, and confidential.
Building Your Support System
You are the most important person on your baby’s care team. But that doesn’t mean you have to do this alone. Lean on your medical team, Early Intervention professionals, family, friends, and NICU support groups. There are people who care deeply about you and your baby, and we’re here to make sure you feel seen and supported.
Celebrate the Little Moments
In the NICU, small milestones are big victories. That first time holding your baby skin-to-skin, watching them breathe on their own, or gaining weight—these are powerful signs of growth. Every tiny step forward is a reason to hope.
Preparing for the Journey Ahead
As your baby grows, their needs may change, and that’s okay. Our Early Intervention team is here to guide your family as you transition home, begin services, and eventually plan for what comes next after age three. From creating a personalized plan to tracking milestones, we’re by your side every step of the way.
You’re Not Alone—We’re Here for You
Your baby’s journey may have started differently than you imagined, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be full of love, growth, and joyful moments. At Encompass Family Support Services, we’re honored to be part of your team.
Explore our Early Intervention Resources
Read more helpful stories on our Blog Page
Request a Free Screening
Let us help you take the next step—with care, compassion, and confidence.
