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Author: CritUSA

How to support NICU parents: 5 Practical Ways to Help

By‎: TELETONUSA /

World Prematurity Day on November 17th is a time to raise awareness and support families with babies born too soon. Premature births can be emotionally and physically challenging, especially when babies need to stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for an extended period. If you have a loved one with a newborn in the NICU, here are a few meaningful ways to provide support and comfort during this challenging journey.

What is the NICU?

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a specialized hospital area where premature or critically ill newborns receive intensive medical care. It is staffed by neonatologists, nurses, and other medical professionals who monitor and treat babies around the clock. Although the NICU is a place of healing and hope, it can also be a very overwhelming environment for parents. They are often separated from their baby for long periods and may feel a mix of joy, anxiety, and fear during their baby’s stay.

1. Celebrate the Small Victories

Parents of NICU babies often miss out on the traditional newborn moments, like dressing their baby in a cute outfit or holding them right after birth. Instead, they are focused on their baby’s health and well-being. This can be an incredibly stressful time, and celebrating their baby’s small victories can be a powerful way to lift their spirits.

Small milestones like weaning off oxygen, gaining weight, or transitioning to bottle feeding are huge achievements in the NICU. Congratulating the family and celebrating these victories reminds them that their baby’s journey is just as special as any other. Your encouragement can help them feel less isolated during this challenging time.

2. Be Mindful with Your Words

A common question that parents often hear is, “When will the baby come home?” While this question comes from a place of care, it can be deeply painful. Parents of NICU babies desperately want to bring their baby home, and every day spent in the NICU can feel long and exhausting. Instead, ask, “How are you and the baby doing today?” This shows your concern and opens up the opportunity to celebrate any of the baby’s progress—big or small.

3. Avoid Comparisons

Every baby is unique, and every journey in the NICU is different. While you may feel inclined to share your own parenting experiences or your child’s developmental milestones, it’s important to remember that NICU babies often have different timelines and medical needs. What worked for a full-term baby may not apply to a premature baby, so avoid offering advice unless specifically asked. NICU parents are already navigating recommendations from doctors, nurses, and therapists, so it’s important not to add to their overwhelm.

4. Respect Health Boundaries

Premature babies often have weakened immune systems and are more vulnerable to infections, particularly during their first two cold/flu/RSV seasons. Families may set strict health boundaries to protect their baby, such as requesting visitors to wear masks, wash hands thoroughly, or even limit physical contact with their baby. Respect these requests without hesitation. Avoid kissing the baby and follow any other precautions the parents ask for—this is essential to keeping their baby safe.

5. Offer Practical Support

Families with a baby in the NICU often face logistical challenges, from managing their time at the hospital to caring for siblings at home. Offering practical support can be a huge relief. Here are a few ideas:

  • Prayers and encouraging words: Sometimes, knowing that others are rooting for their baby’s health and their well-being can be incredibly uplifting.
  • Visits: If the family is comfortable with visitors, offer to visit them in the NICU or provide company during the long waiting hours.
  • Help at home: Offer to babysit siblings so parents can spend time at the hospital. Hiring a cleaning service to prepare the house before the baby comes home can also be a thoughtful gesture.
  • Gift cards: Gas and meal gift cards can help ease the financial burden of traveling back and forth to the hospital or grabbing a quick bite.
  • Books: Reading to a baby in the NICU is a wonderful bonding experience for parents. Consider gifting books and writing a personalized message inside the cover for the baby and family to treasure—a thoughtful “time capsule” to look back on.

Conclusion: Why Your Support Matters

Supporting a family in the NICU can make a world of difference during a difficult time. By offering empathy, respect, and practical help, you can be part of their healing journey and celebrate every step of their baby’s progress. Share this post to join us in spreading awareness this World Prematurity Day. Let’s honor the strength of these incredible families!

5 Inclusive Costume Ideas for Children with Disabilities

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Halloween is one of the most anticipated times of the year for children, filled with magic, creativity, and loads of fun. For families of children with disabilities, the excitement of choosing a costume can come with some challenges. However, with a bit of imagination, it’s possible to create costumes that are not only fun but also inclusive and comfortable for everyone.

Here are some costume ideas that can adapt to different needs while celebrating each child’s uniqueness.

1. Superheroes on Wheels

If your child uses a wheelchair, why not turn it into a superhero vehicle? You can transform it into the Batmobile or the DeLorean from Back to the Future. You can even create simple options at home, such as a firetruck or a rocket ship using recyclable materials.

2. Soft-Textured Animals

Choose costumes made from soft, tag-free fabrics for children with tactile sensitivities. Plush animal costumes, like bears or bunnies, can be a comfortable and fun option.

3. Movement-Friendly Monsters

If your child has limited mobility and uses crutches or a walker, incorporate those into the costume! Costumes that integrate these elements can be very creative and help integrate them in a funnier way. A long-legged monster, a robot, or a scarecrow can be easy and comfortable costumes to make at home.

4. Capes and Accessories

Children with sensory needs often feel more comfortable in simple costumes, such as capes or hats. Make sure the materials are soft and non-restrictive. Capes can recreate their favorite superhero and include a hidden pocket to store a treat so you can add a surprise element.

5. Accessible Fairy Tales

If your child uses a walker or other assistive device, you can transform it into Cinderella’s carriage or Peter Pan’s pirate ship. Your child will be the star of their very own fairy tale!

Extra Tips for Enjoying This Halloween:

  • Plan Ahead:  Make sure the costumes are comfy and easy to move in.
  • Map an Accessible Route: If you’re going trick-or-treating, plan a friendly and accessible route.
  • Inclusive Parties: Consider hosting a party at home with adapted games for all children to enjoy.

At Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA, we believe every child deserves to experience the magic of Halloween. We invite you to explore more costume ideas this season and share them with us.

Explore our website to find inspiring life stories and discover different ways to support our mission of creating a more inclusive world for all children.

5 Benefits of Limiting Screen Time in Early Childhood

By‎: TELETONUSA /

As screen time becomes more and more common, it’s crucial to understand why reducing it is so important, especially for little ones. Here are five reasons why cutting down on screen time in early childhood can have a positive impact on your child’s development:

1. Healthier cognitive development

The first few years of life are critical for brain development. Limiting screen time allows children to engage in activities that boost creativity and problem-solving skills, such as free play and reading.

2. Improved sleep quality

Using screens, especially before bedtime, can disrupt children’s sleep patterns. Without screens, kids are more likely to enjoy deeper and restful sleep, which promotes better health and more energy throughout the day.

3. Enhanced social skills

Interacting with family and friends helps children develop empathy, language, and communication skills. Limiting screen time gives kids more opportunities to connect with others and build meaningful relationships.

4. Encourages physical activity

Less screen time means more time for kids to move, play outside, and explore the world, contributing to better physical health and overall well-being.

5. Improves attention span

Prolonged screen exposure can affect children’s ability to focus. By avoiding screens during early childhood, kids can develop longer attention spans and improve their concentration skills.

Limiting screen time is a powerful way to support your child’s overall well-being. For more parenting and child wellness tips, visit our website and explore our blog!

Meet Alenni, Our Inspiring Star of the Month

By‎: TELETONUSA /

This month, we are delighted to introduce Alenni, a courageous and joyful girl whose journey at CRIT fills us all with pride. Alenni was born with Schizencephaly, a rare brain malformation that affects her movement, emotions, and language. Despite these challenges, Alenni has made extraordinary progress. 

She now communicates her emotions verbally, shares her favorite music, and navigates the world with more independence. Whether she’s moving in her wheelchair, riding her adaptive tricycle, or walking with her gait trainer, Alenni is full of determination. 

Her radiant smile lights up every room and is ever-present, and her love for music fills the halls of CRIT. She loves to say hi!, so wave hello if you see her around CRIT! 

Alenni’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of rehabilitation and the power of support. By becoming a Dream Maker, you can help children like Alenni continue their incredible journeys. Your commitment provides ongoing care, therapies, and opportunities for kids to achieve milestones that once seemed impossible. 

Join us in transforming lives—become a Dream Maker today and make a lasting difference!
Become a Dream Maker and help children like Alenni thrive! Your support is the key to unlocking their full potential.

Celebrating Esteban Landeros Oliva: Our Star of the Month!

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Meet Esteban, a young boy whose courage and determination shine through every challenge he faces. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Esteban has been receiving therapies at CRIT USA for over a year now, and his journey is nothing short of inspiring. His progress has opened doors that once seemed distant, and every week brings new milestones that fill us with pride and hope.

One of the most heartwarming achievements has been Esteban’s ability to communicate. Imagine the joy of a child being able to express themselves fully for the first time! Esteban can now sign six words, including “more,” “help,” and “please.” He can even verbally express “yeah,” “mama,” “bubbles,” and “car”—his favorite toy! But what makes this even more remarkable is that he’s starting to combine words, using both sign language and verbal communication to share his thoughts, needs, and desires with his family. This newfound ability gives Esteban incredible independence, allowing him to connect with those around him in ways that weren’t possible before.

Each word he learns, each sign he makes, brings him closer to the world around him, opening new avenues of connection and understanding. Esteban’s hard work and perseverance, along with the dedication of his therapists, have paved the way for a brighter future filled with possibility.

We are beyond proud of Esteban’s progress, which he continues to make every week. His journey reminds us of the power of resilience and the incredible impact therapies at CRIT USA can have on a child’s life.

Join us in supporting children like Esteban. With your help, we can continue to provide life-changing therapies that open up new worlds of independence, joy, and hope.

Your generosity empowers children like Esteban to thrive!

Meet Cashton: Our Star of the Month!

By‎: TELETONUSA /

We are excited to introduce you to Cashton, a young boy whose incredible determination shines through every step of his journey. Cashton is a hard worker who loves cars, trucks, and playing Connect 4. Shortly after birth, he was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a condition that affects his movement, balance, and posture.

Since starting therapies at CRIT, Cashton has made incredible progress in becoming more independent. He’s learning to use adaptive aids, navigate his wheelchair over different terrains, and improve his safety awareness and impulse control. Cashton also participates in a peer group with other adolescent boys at CRIT, which has strengthened his communication and social skills. One of his biggest achievements has been overcoming his fear of water while working on his strength in aquatic therapy twice a week!

While Cashton’s progress has been amazing, his journey toward rehabilitation is far from over. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of people like you, Cashton and many other children find the strength to overcome challenges that once seemed impossible.

Your support changes lives and opens doors to new opportunities for children like Cashton. Thank you for being part of our mission!

Confronting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Early Intervention is Changing Lives.

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Picture a disease gradually weakening every muscle in a child’s body, including the heart. That’s the reality for approximately 1 in every 3,500 to 5,000 children born globally who battle Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). This genetic disorder primarily affects boys and leads to muscle degeneration and premature death.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy doesn’t just gradually take away a child’s ability to run, jump, or even walk; it also challenges their independence as they grow. Symptoms generally emerge before the age of five and worsen over time. However, it’s not just a physical battle; the emotional and financial cost to families is immense. At the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA, we work to ardently to overturn the prospects for children with DMD, offering hope where there was once despair.

Therapy’s Role:

Rehabilitation therapies, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, are crucial from an early age. These interventions concentrate on maintaining muscle function, improving mobility, and managing symptoms to enhance daily living. The battle against DMD is fought daily in therapy sessions and home care routines. This is where you can make a palpable difference in extending the quality of life for someone diagnosed with DMD.

The Power of Community in the Fight Against Duchenne:

No family should face the challenges of DMD alone. At CRIT, in addition to offering specialized therapies, through counseling and social work services, we provide the emotional support and community resources families require while dealing with this devastating disease.

Your support can drive the development of innovative therapies and provide direct assistance to families facing the daily realities of Duchenne. Visit us at Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA to learn more about how you can contribute to this cause. Your involvement is invaluable, whether through donations, sponsoring a child, or simply sharing this information.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a heartbreaking reality for many families, but with ongoing advances in treatment and an unbreakable community of support, we can transform lives. Let’s unite for every child and family affected by DMD, fighting to ensure that this disease does not limit the potential of our loved ones.

The children at CRIT face significant challenges, but with your help, they can continue to move forward and receive the specialized care they need. Join the Dream Maker program and donate $25 monthly to support their rehabilitation. Your commitment makes a significant difference in changing the lives of hundreds of children living with disabilities. Visit www.critusa.org/dream-maker for more information.

Self-Care: A Compassionate Approach to Your Well-Being

By‎: TELETONUSA /

When you hear the phrase “self-care,” what comes to mind? For some, it might mean a day at the spa, getting a massage, working out at the gym, or even sleeping in. While all those are great examples, self-care is more than just pampering yourself. It’s about a holistic approach to wellness that includes caring for your physical, mental, social, financial, environmental, and spiritual well-being.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when thinking about self-care, especially when busy. You may say, “I don’t have time,” or “I’m unsure where to start.” And that’s okay. Practicing self-care doesn’t have to mean dedicating an entire day to yourself. Even 10 minutes a day can positively affect how you feel. Self-care is personal—it’s not “one size fits all.” What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s perfectly fine.

Finding Your Path to Self-Care

Start by engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to your favorite music, dancing, taking a walk, watching a show, or spending time with a friend, small acts of self-care can bring balance to your day. You can also consider changes to your environment. Rearranging your living space, adding a plant or fresh flowers, or simply hanging a new picture on the wall can refresh your surroundings and boost your mood.

Physical self-care is equally important. This includes keeping up with regular medical check-ups, eating nutritious meals, getting enough sleep, and moving your body, whether it’s through exercise or just a stroll.

Take It One Step at a Time

Since self-care has different aspects, start by focusing on one area. Identify what you can do to improve your well-being in that space. You might realize you’re doing well in one area but lacking in another. The key is awareness, intention, and action. Recognizing where you need care and taking small, intentional steps will lead to a more balanced and fulfilling self-care routine.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up better for others and yourself. So, take a deep breath, start small, and embrace the self-care journey. You deserve it.

Celebrating Fadi and Rafael’s Progress: A Year of Transformation at CRIT 

By‎: TELETONUSA /

At the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA (CRIT), every child has a story that inspires and touches our hearts. Today, we want to share with you the incredible journey of two brave little boys, Fadi and Rafael—three-year-old twins with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1. These amazing kids have been receiving therapy at CRIT for nearly a year, and their progress fills us with joy and hope.

Fadi and Rafael love their aquatic therapy sessions, which are a key part of their Recreational Therapy. This therapy has significantly improved their range of motion andfine and gross motor skills. Beyond the physical benefits, aquatic therapy has boosted their confidence in the water, offering them a therapeutic experience that strengthens their bodies and spirits.

These two little warriors recently received their manual wheelchairs, a huge step toward their independence. Now, they can freely cruise around, whether at CRIT or school, exploring their surroundings with a newfound sense of freedom. Fadi and Rafael are incredibly social kids; their laughter brightens every room. Week after week, they work hard during therapy, showing strength and determination that inspires us all.

But the progress Fadi and Rafael have made wouldn’t be possible without the support of people like you. Their story is a powerful reminder of how life-changing rehabilitation can be. At CRIT, every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and overcome obstacles. With your help, we can continue providing the specialized therapies that make a real difference in the lives of children like Fadi and Rafael.

How can you help?

• Donate today: Your contribution can help fund critical therapies for more children.

• Share their story: Help spread the word about the impact of CRIT’s work.

• Volunteer: Your time can change a child’s life.

At CRIT, every donation brings us closer to creating a more inclusive world of opportunities for children with disabilities. Join us in celebrating Fadi and Rafael’s progress as we work together to create a more inclusive world for all!

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