Ep. 42: How can families navigate and overcome a NICU experience?
One of the more terrifying events for any parent is seeing their child born and rushed off to the NICU. Though we might talk about how it's so much better compared to losing our children - and there's no doubt that's the case - the typical experience for families in the NICU isn't one that we would wish on anyone. Some of the best NICUs in terms of medical care are those least equipped to deal with the psychological and bonding needs of new families. Parents can be left with little time with their baby, no room for them to stay, and advice that counters their instincts to care for the newest member of their family. Sharing a blend of her own experience in this regard, the science around neurological and general development for preterm or low birth weight babies, and an understanding of the needs of families today, Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum joins me to help families who have either already experienced this event and need help processing, are in the midst of this experience, or don't know if it's something they may face. Her compassion and knowledge are unsurpassed in this and I believe this is something that is invaluable for all families to hear. Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum: https://www.nurtureneuro.com/about How to Support a NICU baby at home (download): https://evolutionaryparenting.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Nurture-for-the-NICU-.pdf Hand to Hold: https://handtohold.org/nicu-family-support/ NICU resources from Mt Sinai Hospital (Canada): https://www.mountsinai.on.ca/care/nicu/support-and-resources/resources-for-parents-with-pre-term-babies