How to Use NICU Milestone Cards

NICU milestone cards are a simple, meaningful way to celebrate your baby’s progress — whether you love taking photos or prefer to keep things private. Here are practical, parent-tested ways to use them in the NICU, plus tips for capturing special moments safely and beautifully.

NICU Milestone Card Checklist

1. Place the milestone card next to your baby (only if your NICU allows it).
2. Write the date and a note on the back to record the moment.
3. If your baby is fragile or cannot be moved, place the card on the outside of the isolette.
4. Photograph just the card if you would rather not share NICU photos publicly.
5. Use the cards during any professional NICU photography sessions, if available.
6. Use your phone’s tap-to-focus or portrait mode to improve lighting and sharpness.
7. Create a photo + card album to document your baby’s NICU journey.
8. Keep using milestone cards after discharge to continue the story at home.

1. Place the card next to your baby for quick photos

The most common approach is the simplest:

Set the milestone card beside your baby and snap a photo (with permission from your care team).

This creates a clear record of the moment and makes it easy to look back on the timeline of your NICU journey.

Important: NICU policies vary by hospital, so always double-check what’s allowed.

2. Write notes on the back to remember the details

The reverse side of each card is perfect for:

• The date
• Baby’s weight or gestational age
• A quick memory (“First time we held you!”)
• Notes for baby books or journals later

This transforms each milestone into a keepsake you’ll treasure long after discharge.

3. Use the cards without moving your baby

If your baby can’t be repositioned, you can:

• Tape the card to the outside of the isolette
• Prop it on a nearby surface
• Hold it gently in-frame while keeping your baby calm and undisturbed

This keeps the experience safe and stress-free.

4. Share milestones even if you don’t want to post NICU photos

Not every family feels comfortable sharing pictures from the NICU.
A helpful alternative is to:

• Photograph just the milestone card
• Add a short update (“Baby hit 3 pounds today!”)
• Share with friends and family without revealing images of your baby or the medical environment

It keeps your circle updated while protecting your privacy.

5. Use milestone cards during professional photo sessions (if available)

Some NICUs partner with volunteer photographers or medical-family photography programs, and if you're lucky enough to have a professional session - your cards will surely be a fun way to highlight your baby's strength and progress.

6. Use them with your phone — no fancy gear needed

Most NICU parents rely on phone cameras.

To help you get the best results, don’t miss this excellent tutorial from photographer Jessica Strom: “How to Photograph Your Baby in the NICU" 

Her tips cover light, angles, glare, and how to make medical equipment less overwhelming in photos.

7. Create a NICU milestone album

Many families create an album with:

• Each milestone card
• A matching photo
• A short note
• Dates and weights

This becomes a powerful keepsake and a beautiful way to show your baby their story as they grow.

8. Bring them home — and keep using them

After discharge, parents often continue the series with:

• “First day home”
• “Graduated from the NICU”
• “One month adjusted age”

It creates continuity between NICU life and home life.

Updated 12/01/2025