Reddit reviews No Bigger than My Teddy Bear

Hi! I’ve had both of my kids stay in the NiCU for 5 months each (one is 5 years old and the second 5months old. We just got discharged April 7). As you can imagine it’s really really hard to be there with a toddler. The environment is also very stimulating and even our five year old after visiting for 20 mins would ask to leave. Most NICUs allow kids 4+ for visits. Since in your case you already know a NICU stay is a given I would ask to speak with the NICU social worker so they can help you understand what services are provided/how can they support you. That’s their role! In both of our NICU stays we were surprised by the different services provided by the hospital for different folks depending on their need (I understand every hospital is different). Some were given vouchers for the hospital cafeteria, taxi vouchers for those that lived far, some were moved to an apartment/shared home for some time. The social workers might be able to assist you in finding a day care. For example the hospital our second baby was born at had a play place staffed with volunteers for the peds patients and as long as our daughter was up to date on her vaccine they allowed us to leave her there (while we went to the NiCU to stay with our second baby) for a few hours a day. I would really encourage you to talk to a social worker at the hospital. Some NICUs also have funds for parking and other costs so they might be able to help you with child care costs. Other NICUs have a very strong parent groups who raise funds independently and may be able to help. Some religiously affiliated child care centers, if you share your situation with them, might be able to help care for your two year old or give you discounted rate.

One thing we learnt from our extended NICU stay is that even though you are going thru a tough time you are the one that has to push and advocate for yourself. It sucks but that’s the reality. Keep asking, pushing and demanding.

I know two is young and everyone’s situation is different. This book helped us talk to our daughter about the NICU.

No Bigger than My Teddy Bear https://www.amazon.com/dp/097284600X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GuITCb44Q9YWM

Please feel free to DM me if you have any questions.