Congratulations On Graduating From The NICU!

We enjoyed working with your baby in Occupational Therapy during their hospital stay. Here are a few simple activities you can do with your baby at home.

Ways to Help Your Baby Stay Calm

Coming home can be hard for some babies. These tips can help make the change easier for your baby.

• Let your baby meet new people or pets slowly.
• Bright lights, loud sounds, and scents can be too much for your baby. Limiting these can help calm your baby.
• Keep a simple daily routine. This helps your baby know what to expect.
• Use gentle positive touch each day. Try this before a diaper change or after a feeding. This will help your baby handle more without getting upset.

Activities to do With Your Baby

• Hold your baby facing you so you can look at each other. If your baby needs extra body support, lay them on their side or back.
• Move a toy slowly from side to side. This will help your baby learn to follow with their eyes.
  • Use toys with high contrast colors like black and white, or red and black. These are easier for babies to see.
  • Use toys that are about the size of a tennis ball. These are easier for your baby to see and track.
• Read, sing, and talk to your baby during the day. Telling your baby everything you are doing will help your baby learn and connect.
• Bright lights or extra noise can distract your baby. Try to limit background noise from the TV, radio, and other kids.  When possible, play with your baby in a room that has natural light.

Continue to watch your baby’s progress and reach out to your provider if you have concerns.

For More Information Review These Resources:

Your Child’s Development: Newborn

Your Newborn’s Hearing, Vision and other senses

Movement, Coordination, and Your Newborn

Learning, Play, and Your Newborn

Wisconsin Birth to Three Program