Waiting for Baby: A Sibling Visits the NICU - Paperback

by Jennifer Bracci (Author), Angie Jones (Illustrator)

Waiting for Baby - A Sibling Visits the NICU is a comforting picture book that helps young children understand and process the experience of having a sibling in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Visiting a NICU can be overwhelming-especially for a young child. There are breathing machines, IV pumps, monitoring equipment, and unfamiliar alarms. Some babies are tiny and fragile. Others are under bright lights or surrounded by tubes. This story gently prepares children for what they might see, hear, and feel during sibling visitation, helping to ease fear and uncertainty.

Told through warm, rhyming text and supported by engaging illustrations, the book introduces children to the NICU environment in a developmentally appropriate way. It reassures them that their love and presence matter-even when they can't hold or play with their new baby sibling.

With practical suggestions and comforting language, this book encourages bonding, emotional expression, and family connection during a difficult and unfamiliar time. It's an essential resource for parents, caregivers, and hospital staff supporting siblings of NICU babies.

Author Biography

Jennifer Bracci has been a registered nurse in a level three neonatal intensive care unit since 1999. After becoming a parent herself, she realized the true importance of family centered care. Older siblings may experience confusion and fear upon witnessing the NICU environment and Jennifer hopes to assist parents in preparing for a NICU visit. She lives in Miami, Florida with her husband and two young sons.

Angie Jones started drawing for adults and children when she was a wee child. When she isn't drawing, painting or writing, she likes riding her bicycle. hiking or watching a good movie. You can see more of Angie's art work and download fun coloring pages at www.angiejones.com.