1: Status for parents as essential caregivers
The bond between a parent and their infant is unlike any other. Infants and their parents are biologically co-regulated, deeply intertwined in ways that science continues to reveal.
Chapter 1 Key Points
Awareness
- Parent–infant bond drives health outcomes
- Separation in NICU disrupts biological regulation
- Parents are essential caregivers, not visitors
Assessment
- Review policies, signage, and staff language
- Identify barriers to parent recognition and inclusion
- Evaluate tone, inclusivity, and accessibility of communication
Action
- Form an interdisciplinary implementation team
- Engage families early and revise policies
- Conduct assessments and co-design strategies
- Sustain leadership, equity, and collaboration
Download the Full Toolkit Here
Authors
Jessica T. Fry, MD
Keira Sorrells, BSFCS
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© 2026 Family-Centered Care Taskforce. Family-Centered Care Taskforce. All rights reserved. This toolkit may be reproduced and distributed freely for educational and non-commercial purposes with attribution. Any use of this content must acknowledge the Family-Centered Care Taskforce as the source. No portion of this toolkit may be altered or used for commercial purposes without prior written permission. Custom illustrations created for this project are for FCC Taskforce toolkit use only and may not be altered or reused separately.
DISCLAIMER
Readers are advised to adapt the guidelines and resources based on their local facility’s level of care and patient populations served and are also advised not to rely solely on the guidelines presented here.