Growth and development challenges for premature babies
Premature babies are more likely to be delayed in meeting their growth and developmental milestones compared to full-term babies.
The earlier your baby is born, the more challenges they might face, as their bodies and brains have had to adjust to the outside world before they were fully ready.
All babies born in Australia can see their local child and family health nurse for free. Visits are usually arranged at key developmental stages from birth until they start school. Child and family health services help to pick up on any issues your child might be having and arrange support.
Developmental disability
Most premature babies will eventually catch up in their development, but some may face a level of disability. This depends on the reason for their premature birth and any added complications that might have happened during birth. Developmental disabilities related to premature birth can include:
- cerebral palsy
- visual or hearing difficulties
- learning delays
- gross and fine motor skill difficulties
- speech development delays.
Language development
While premature babies typically follow a similar language development path to full-term babies, their language development can be delayed. Language delays can sometimes be an early sign of hearing, cognitive, or learning difficulties.
Physical disability
Premature babies will usually have a lower birth weight. It might take them a little while to physically catch up in weight and height compared to babies born at term. Some may experience minor difficulties in fine motor skills, coordination and planning of movement, matching what they see to their movement, and responding physically to things they see, hear, or feel.
Dental health
Premature babies can sometimes have more dental issues as they grow. This might include:
- softer or weaker teeth
- teething that starts a little later than usual
- slight differences in the shape or structure of their mouth
Your child’s doctor may recommend seeing a Paediatric dentist around 12 months of age, or when their first tooth appears. Early checks can help prevent problems and support healthy development.
Sensory development
Most premature babies will have typical hearing, vision, and sensory development, they do have a higher risk of hearing loss and vision problems as they grow. These issues are usually picked up and addressed early through routine health checks and screenings.
Learning and social-emotional development
Social and emotional development can look a little different for premature babies, especially if there were complications around birth. Some may take longer to focus, learn new things, or manage their emotions. And that’s okay. Every baby develops in their own time.
In the first year, premature babies might also seem a bit more unsettled or less responsive than other babies. This can be hard for parents, especially when talking with other parents and carers. Try not to worry- this is common for premature babies. Keep checking in with your baby’s doctor and child and family health nurse if you have any concerns or want extra support.