Supporting Your Baby After the NICU
Bringing your baby home from the NICU is a moment filled with joy and often, a little uncertainty. After weeks or months surrounded by monitors, nurses, and structured routines, being on your own again can feel both exciting and overwhelming. You’re finally home, but you may still have questions about what comes next.
Leaving the NICU is not the end of your journey; it’s the start of a new chapter. Our team is here to help your family build confidence, connect with local resources, and support your baby’s ongoing development through Early Intervention Services.
Adjusting to Life at Home After the NICU
The transition from hospital to home takes time. Every baby’s path looks different, and it’s okay if yours doesn’t follow the same timeline as others. Many families find comfort in creating simple routines for feeding, diapering, and quiet bonding time that help their baby feel safe and secure in a new environment.
Try to celebrate the little victories, like finishing a feeding or getting through a full nap in the crib. These moments may seem small, but they’re big steps in your baby’s growth and recovery.
What Comes Next for Development
Babies born prematurely or with medical complications often need extra support in reaching developmental milestones. Early intervention can play an important role during this stage. This free, in-home program helps families encourage growth through daily activities, like tummy time and gentle movement.
Your early intervention team works alongside you to set goals, track progress, and adapt strategies as your child grows. Whether it’s helping with feeding challenges, strengthening motor skills, or encouraging early communication, every session is designed around your family’s needs.
Could My Child Qualify for Early Intervention?
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.
Building Confidence as a Parent
It’s natural to question whether you’re doing everything right, especially after leaving the structured environment of the NICU. Remember that your baby already knows your voice, your touch, and your love. You are their constant.
Take time to rest, ask for help when you need it, and connect with others who understand. Our Encompass Experienced Parents, Heidi and Moe, are available to listen, answer questions, and share encouragement from one parent to another.
Email Heidi: hkotchian@encompass.net
Email Moe: mswanson@encompass.net
We’re Here for You
Your baby’s progress might look different from what was expected, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t growing in incredible ways. Every smile, every movement, every new sound is a milestone worth celebrating. And through it all, we are here to guide and support your family with compassion and care.
Leaving the NICU is a big step, but you don’t have to face the next stage alone. Encompass Family Support Services is here to help you build confidence, track your child’s milestones, and find joy in the everyday moments of growth. Together, we’ll make sure your family feels supported every step of the way.
Explore our Early Intervention Resources>>
