08/02/2026
There’s something uniquely powerful about that moment — when an older sibling meets their new brother or sister for the first time in the NICU. It’s tender, a little fragile, and often overwhelmingly emotional for everyone in the room.
🌼 What the moment is often like
Quiet awe: NICUs are calm, softly lit spaces. Siblings often walk in wide‑eyed, whispering instinctively as if they already understand the importance of the moment.
Curiosity mixed with caution: They notice the wires, the monitors, the tiny nappies. Many children pause, unsure if they’re allowed to get close.
A protective instinct kicks in: Even very young children often soften their voice, reach out gently, or ask, “Is that my baby?”
Parents feel everything at once: Pride, relief, fear, gratitude — it’s a swirl of emotions that hits hard.
💛 Why it’s such a meaningful milestone
It marks the moment your family expands in a real, tangible way.
It helps siblings bond early, even if the baby can’t be held yet.
It reassures the older child that the baby is safe and cared for.
It gives parents a memory that often becomes a turning point in a stressful NICU journey.
💜Sibling visits in the NICU are important for bonding, and require preparation to ease anxiety. Prepare children by describing the noisy environment, machines (incubators/monitors), and encouraging them to wash hands, draw pictures, or touch the baby. Keep visits short, often allowing up to 3 people at the cot side.
Preparation and Tips for the First Visit
🗣️Explain the Environment: Describe the sights and sounds, such as machines that beep and bright lights, so they are not frightened.
👀Use Visuals: Show photos of the baby in the incubator beforehand.
💜Set Expectations: Explain the need for strict handwashing and gentle, quiet behavior.
Involve Them: Have siblings bring a special stuffed animal, blanket, or drawing for the baby.
‼️Check Policies: Verify age restrictions and specific visiting hours (e.g., 10 am–10 pm) with the hospital.
Supporting Siblings During the Stay
💜Keep Routines: Maintain normal routines as much as possible to provide a sense of security.
📚Read Books: Use children’s books about the NICU to help them understand.
💗Encourage Connection: Allow them to help with care, such as reading a book to their sibling, if allowed by staff.
😑Validate Feelings: Acknowledge that they might feel sad, scared, or excited.
🎥For children who cannot visit, encourage them to record a video or audio message to be played at the bedside.
💜This beautiful moment below was captured and shared with parental consent.
💜Captain flinders is so proud of his siblings and privileged to be able to share in such precious moments.
💙Welcome to the world baby Jude you are so loved already by big brother Louie 💙
