Growth Spurts

as respiratory distress syndrome, initially can inhibit the growth of a premature infant. However, if no long-term detriment arises, then the normal genetic potential he inherits is the ultimate determinant of his size.¹ Keep in mind that some severe conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, or other medical circumstances may alter the developmental process of a premature infant. The duration of hospitalization also can affect his developmental progress. Lengthened time in the ICU may prevent opportunity for stimulation.

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Milestones Vary What may seem like a minor milestone in the “full-term” spectrum may be a giant hurdle for a premature baby. Even in a room filled with full-term babies — all the same age — you will notice that every baby

Small Babies,

Big Rewards

encourage Development in your premature BaBy.

By Jana Post, M.S.

PREMATURE bAbIES are born before their bodies have developed completely. Therefore, they are at a higher risk for developmental delays. Questions of whether their low birth weight is normal race through the minds of parents. These fears are natural, as premature babies often start life behind the curve developmentally.

Sizing Up the Differences Premature babies may seem small for their age, but there is plenty of time for them to catch up. Size by itself is not an indicator of a baby’s development. The growth curve — how rapidly the baby grows and how much weight the baby gains

in a time period — is a stronger indicator of normal development. A premature infant’s developmental expectations are measured by his gestational age (or corrected age) rather than his actual age. For example, at 6 months old a baby born two months early will be developmentally like a 4-month-old. The developmental pattern of a preterm infant will follow a different curve, and most pediatricians will continue to calculate his adjusted age until he is 2 years old.

Many factors should be considered when assessing a premature infant’s growth and development. Intrauterine growth restriction and complications of prematurity, such

DEvELOPMENTAL DELAYS

The following signs might indicate a developmental delay in your premature infant. Check with your pediatrician if you are concerned.

• Your baby fails to manipulate objects. She lacks the ability to look, track, or portray active handling ( banging, mouthing, turning, or transferring from hand to hand).

• Your baby does not recognize familiar voices.

• Your baby does not coo, squeal, babble, or cry to express needs.

• Your baby portrays limited flexibility and exhibits asymmetric reflexes.

• Your baby persistently makes a tight fist with her hands beyond the corrected age of 3 months.

• Your baby shows limited coordination in sucking, rooting, and swallowing.

• Your baby does not show increasing support/control of her head by the corrected age of 3 months.

• Your baby has trouble tracking or moving one or both eyes in all directions.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org.

8 PARENTLIFE MARCH 2008