Reinforcing the essential role of families through first impressions of the physical environment.

The physical environment in all of its aspects of space, structure, millwork, furniture, materials, flow, signage, and art has great potential to set a positive tone and invitation for families to be partners in the care of their infants. This article describes design strategies that create a series of positive welcoming first impressions throughout a NICU to support family caregiving and participation as parents of their infant and essential members of the care team.