Resources: Supporting Fathers in the NICU

Adding a new member to the family can be an exciting time, but it can also come with heavy challenges. When things don’t go as planned during pregnancy or childbirth, and parents find themselves with their baby in the NICU, having the right support can make a big difference.

Some dads may be reluctant to seek support, but there are a few things home visitors can do to encourage them to accept help as they navigate this experience.

In a webinar LA Best Babies Network hosted on November 16, Agustina Berton, Ph.D, and Alyssa Morris, M.A., from the UCLA Prevention Center of Excellence, outlined the societal expectations and pressure fathers face. They also shared specific and practical ways home visiting programs can support dads during this challenging time.

At the presenter’s request, we did not record the webinar, but you can find the presentation slides and other helpful resources below.

Resources

• PowerPoint: Supporting Fathers in the NICU
• DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center:
  • Supporting Dads in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
  • The Resilient NICU
  • “But what about Dad?” A Guide to Supporting Dads During the NICU Journey
  • Supporting Dads in the NICU: Tips for Partners
  • Dads in the NICU: Taking Care of Yourself and Seeking Support
• Stronger Families Blog:
  • Webinar: How Home Visitors Can Support NICU Families: at the Hospital and at Home
  • Webinar: How Home Visiting Programs Can Support NICU Families
  • Support groups for NICU families
• National Perinatal Association
• Washington Fatherhood Council
• Hand to Hold
• NICU Dad