Moms of babies in the NICU, I need some help. There’s a local nonprofit to me in Ohio called Houston’s Lift Off, and they’re doing nicu basket donations to give to moms with littles currently in the nicu. They don’t give any details as far as why, how long or anything (completely fine) and this is my second year donating baskets! What are some good things I can add to them to help them feel loved and supported? My son was never in the nicu, so I want to make sure to include the most needed and supporting items! They don’t have to be Momcozy products, and I’d prefer to stay away from breastfeeding items incase they aren’t able to breastfeed.
Thank you so so so much, and I encourage everyone to reach out to local hospitals and see if any organizations do things like this!
Food cards/vouchers, snacks, small books to read to the baby, A small notebook/journal to write down important info or to process feelings in the moment, baby wipes.
I have to second angels recommendations here but with an added electrolyte packets like Liquid IV or something for mom to stay hydrated because I know she’s in there pumping up a storm for that baby and just praying for that milk to come in and milk bags too maybe
Oh wow that’s amazing of you. Maybe diaper, wipes, cute baby clothes, and diaper creams to test, lotions for baby skin. For mama snacks, belly lotion, electrolytes, something to make her feel pretty, gift card for coffee and hair elastics
This is such a beautiful idea. As a NICU mama, the little things truly make such a big difference.
Some things I would add:
Gift cards for essentials like Target, DoorDash, or gas because NICU stays can be unexpected and expensive.
Cozy socks and slippers for those long days and nights at the hospital.
A nursing pillow to help support those precious moments holding baby.
A good water bottle and electrolyte packets because staying hydrated is so important, especially if pumping.
A blank journal to document those tiny milestones, feelings and memories. Those moments become so precious later. It helped me slow down and process what was happening.
An eye mask because sleeping in a hospital setting is so hard.
A supportive pumping bra. Even though I couldn’t nurse right away because my little one was so tiny, I pumped every 2 hours to mimic his feeding schedule. Having that support made such a difference & I was able to provide my breastmilk while also supplementing with formula for weight gain.
Most importantly, a little card to remind them they are already doing an incredible job. NICU is an emotional journey & having someone acknowledge and support the parents not just the baby means everything.
One thing I loved that our hospital did was a NICU dad box with a book, shirt & coffee mug that said “NICU Dad.” My husband cried because dads are so often forgotten, but they are such a huge part of the healing and support during this journey. They need to feel seen, appreciated & loved too.
As a NICU mom, I think an encouragement card would be one of the most meaningful things you could include. When your baby is in the NICU, your heart is with them every second of the day, I remember feeling guilty, helpless, and wishing I could be by my baby’s side every moment. A simple reminder that you’re doing your best and that you’re not alone can mean the world during such a difficult time.
For a mom basket, I think a reusable water bottle, some snacks, lip balm, hair ties, shower steamers, or dry shampoo would all be wonderful and practical gifts.
For the baby, you could include a soft muslin blanket, burp cloths, bibs, baby washcloths, and maybe a pair of baby mittens or socks
It looks like you got a ton of answers but just wanted to say this is absolutely amazing of you. As an aunt to 3 NICU babies this is amazing! This is going to light their faces up
My friend had a baby in the nicu for 6 months so she introduced me to this and I immediately knew how important this was and I’m hoping to do it every year for them!
You are such a kind soul for doing this for the NICU babies and their mamas! I admire the work you are doing. You’re really helping a lot of people during a very stressful time for them
and milk bags too maybe
As a NICU mama, the little things truly make such a big difference.
