Support After the NICU
Support After the NICU
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Support After the NICU
Support After the NICU
Leaving the NICU is a huge milestone, but it doesn’t always feel the way people expect it to.
For many families, the transition home brings a mix of relief, anxiety, and uncertainty. After weeks or months of constant support, suddenly being on your own can feel overwhelming.
At The Wait With You Foundation, we want families to know that support doesn’t end at discharge.
What families may be navigating
What families may be navigating
• Ongoing medical needs and follow-up appointments
• Feeding challenges or concerns about growth
• Adjusting to life at home after a high-risk pregnancy or NICU stay
• Feeling isolated after leaving a highly supported environment
Where to Start
Where to Start
If you’re not sure where to begin, you’re not alone.
1. Talk to your pediatrician
1. Talk to your pediatrician
They can guide you and help connect you to the right services.
2. Request an Early Intervention evaluation
2. Request an Early Intervention evaluation
You can refer your child yourself, no doctor referral needed.
Even if your baby seems to be doing well, an evaluation can help provide reassurance or early support.
3. Follow up on NICU recommendations
3. Follow up on NICU recommendations
If anything was suggested at discharge, it’s worth checking in on.
4. Start with one concern
4. Start with one concern
You don’t have to figure everything out at once. Start where something feels off.
5. Reach out
5. Reach out
If you’re unsure where to go next, we’re here to help.
Get Connected
Get Connected
If you need support after a NICU stay, reach out and we’ll help point you in the right direction and connect you with local resources.
hello@waitwithyoufoundation.org
Lactation & Feeding Support
Feeding after a NICU stay isn’t always straightforward.
Some families are navigating breastfeeding after separation, pumping schedules, bottle feeding, or medical feeding needs. What “should be simple” can feel anything but.
Lactation consultants and feeding providers can help with:
• Breastfeeding support and positioning
• Latch difficulties
• Milk supply concerns
• Pumping and bottle-feeding guidance
• Transitioning between breast and bottle
• Oral motor and feeding skills
• Reflux, gagging, or feeding discomfort
• Introducing purees, solids, and advancing textures
• Supporting safe, positive feeding experiences
Early Intervention Services
Early Intervention (EI) services support babies and toddlers who may need extra help with development. Many NICU graduates qualify for EI or can benefit from an evaluation so parents can better support their child’s development. These services are family-centered and designed to support both your child and you.
Services can include:
Special Education Services
Speech and Language Therapy
Feeding & Oral Motor Support
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Vision Services
Hearing Services
Nutrition Services
Family Training & Support
Developmental Groups
Service Coordination
Community & Connection
One of the hardest parts after leaving the NICU is how quiet it can feel.
You go from constant check-ins, nurses, and support to being home, often without a community that fully understands what you’ve been through.
Connecting with others who “get it” can make a big difference.
This can look like:
• Local parent or NICU support groups
• Informal meetups and community events
• Spaces to share your experience and feel understood
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