Family Support and Education

Family involvement is essential to the developmental outcome of infants born into Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In this article, evidence has been presented on the parent's perspective of having an infant in the NICU and the context of family. Key points to an educational assessment are also reviewed. Throughout, the parent's concerns and the educational needs of the family are shared, and strategies are given to help therapists enhance their teaching skills and ways to partner with parents. This article also introduces the NICU Discharge Path for parents "Preparing for Your Baby to Come Home". The Path educates parents on the steps towards home and encourages their participation in the process.