NICU Holiday Support Guide: 10 Ways to Bring Comfort to NICU Families

1. Send a meal delivery gift card: NICU parents forget to eat. A warm meal makes a world of difference.

2. Offer childcare for siblings: One of the greatest stressors for parents is balancing the NICU with home responsibilities.

3. Deliver a cozy blanket or comfort item: Hospitals get cold. A soft blanket or holiday-themed pillow provides warmth and reassurance.

4. Offer a ride to the hospital: Transportation and gas are major barriers for many families.

5. Drop off snacks + water bottles: Protein bars, fruit cups, nuts, mint gum, and electrolyte drinks go a long way.

6. Pack a small holiday kit: Include a battery candle, a tiny ornament, a journal, a devotional, lotion, and lip balm.

7. Provide a “mental break” gift: A coloring book, prayer cards, a podcast playlist, or a Starbucks gift card.

8. Check in with gentle texts: Keep them simple: “Thinking of you today, no need to reply.”

9. Offer tangible help: Errands, grocery pickups, laundry help, house tidying.

10. Pray for them: One of the greatest gifts you can give: covering their family in prayer.