It is difficult for the whole family when a new baby is in the NICU. In addition, the baby's siblings might not understand why their new baby can't come home right away. These books explain that the NICU is a special place that works to make baby healthy. This coloring book is a playful and informative guide for the baby's older siblings, teaching them what they can do to be a great big brother or sister.
coloring books
NICU Sibling-Support
Read what mommy blogger Shanisty Ireland thinks of these resources!
We offer two different coloring books in a variety of languages and iterations to support each unique family:
Come Home Soon...
The Come Home Soon coloring book series will help you guide your children to an understanding of why their baby sister or brother is in the NICU, and what they can do to help.
...Baby Brother
...Baby SIster
12 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-26-8
12 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-41-1
12 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-39-8
12 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-55-8
available
In spanish
available
In spanish
"A coloring book for big brothers and sisters of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit. It tells the story of a boy whose brother has to stay in the NICU. It describes why the baby brother is in the NICU, what he looks like and what to expect in the NICU. It also describes things that the older boy does to be a great big brother.
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The process of coloring the pictures and listening to the story gives parents and older siblings a wonderful opportunity to talk about their own NICU baby. It can guide conversation, and help siblings learn that they aren’t the only kid who has had a baby brother or sister in the NICU. At just $2.95, it’s a very small investment with a big payoff."
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- Kristie McNealy, M.D.
"A marvelous coloring book designed just for older siblings that I believe should be in every hospital to hand out to encourage hope... This twelve page book contains easy to understand medical verbiage, fun drawings to color, and is written by a Registered Nurse, Debi Iarussi. Debi Iarussi has had tons of experience in Maternal Child Nursing and Women’s Services and is currently a lactation consultant in Austin, Texas.
With a deep understanding of how older children respond to their babies being in the NICU, she set out to develop a book to make the experience better. With complete success this coloring book... reminds a child that the NICU is a temporary step in their new baby’s life and educates them on simple ideas like washing hands and breastfeeding."
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- Bobbi Hammonds, Evansville Early Childhood Parenting Examiner
Rich and Creamy
for Our Preemie
A coloring book about how the NICU, milk banks, and families work together to help preemies.
Available In English
18 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-69-5
12 pages
Black and white
Price*: $2.95
ISBN: 978-1-930775-70-1
available
In spanish
“Rich and Creamy gives children a positive explanation of why their new sibling is in the NICU. It gently, but clearly, speaks to the importance of human milk for preemies. It should be a part of every NICU’s family support program.”
- Dara Barnett RN, IBCLC, Maimonides Hospital, Brooklyn, NY
“This winning, educational, and family-centered story is a great tool for hospitals and milk banks. It illustrates the health-giving power of mommy’s milk and acquaints us with milk banking. A must have for families!”
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-Jean M. Drulis, Director and Co-founder Mother’s Milk Bank of Iowa
Coloring books can be individually packaged in a resealable bag with a crayon set for an additional 25 cents. Simply select "Yes" from dropdown menu on each individual product page. Then all you have to do is add your hospital literature for a lovely packet to present to your families!
* Looking to purchase just one coloring book? Enter code NICU1 to get free shipping!
* Bulk discounts are available. Contact Martha@PlatypusMedia.com for more information.