Implementing Live Music Therapy in a Level III NICU in Italy in Synergy with an Existing Positive Touch and Babywearing Program

A neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is often a stressful environment for infants, potentially impeding developmental progress. Each interaction between a premature infant and their caregiver holds the potential to influence the infant’s neuro-emotional developmental trajectory. Premature birth can interrupt the natural bonding process, leading to increased parental stress levels. A parent’s ability to appropriately respond to their baby’s behavior is fundamental to the development of attachment and early relational connection. This article details the establishment and implementation of a live music therapy (LMT) program within a level III NICU in Italy. Situated within the Italian healthcare tradition of “humanization of care,” this program reflects a culturally responsive, family-centered approach. It operates in collaboration with other nonpharmacological interventions, including positive touch (PT), kangaroo care (KC) and babywearing (BW). These flexible interventions were delivered individually or in combination, tailored to meet the specific needs of each family, from the earliest days of NICU admission. This approach aims to provide age-appropriate and evidence-based sensory experiences across tactile, auditory, visual, and kinesthetic domains. The program was led by a certified NICU music therapist and a pediatric nurse babywearing consultant, both trained as infant massage instructors through the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) and as positive touch specialists for preterm infants. This paper provides a reflective account of the program’s establishment, focusing on its integration into clinical practice rather than formal research findings. DeclarationsCompeting InterestsThe authors declare that they have no competing interests.FundingThe music therapy program described in this article was supported by the Pulcini Combattenti ONLUS Parents’ Association (a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families in the NICU).