What are /are there developmental delays with preschoolers who were premature babies?

Question

I work in childcare and one of the boys was very premature. He is nearly 4 but seems very young. The main thing that I find a concern developmentally is his physicality - hi muscle tone is appalling. I have never met such a 'floppy' kid. Literally if he sits on your lap he moulds into your shape like he has no muscle. It is a real worry for the fact that in a years time he will be at school and things are going to proove to be even harder from there on for him.

Is there anything anyone can suggest to help with his development? Are there any books/websites/information that you could reccomend I look into to help him and to understand his development? Is it quite common place for a prem baby to have such delays - particulary with muscle tone?

Any information/advice or ideas would be appriciated. Thank you :)

Answer 1

Yes research suggests that many prebabies will have difficulties with motor development and cognitive skills. Many show developmental delay compared to the norm for their age...but some do go on to be gifted students so does depends on individual and their home influences.

Some prembabies will suffer brain damage from diffcult births, not fuly developing in womb etc. All children are individuals so you they may be other factors to your little boy-do u know much about his background? Floppy children can be sign of alcohol abuse during pregnancy or not getting the right diet, could also be another medical disorder so if you are concerned may be worth talking to your supervisors or SENCO.

Ideas:

-play muscle building games such as walks, climbing frame, trampoline etc.

-Action songs such as head, shoulders, knees and toes which involve stretching etc.

etc

Websites:

http://www.premature-babies.co.uk/

http://www.internethealthlibrary.com/Wom...

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents/Havi...

Answer 2

I have a child that was diagnoised with global developmental delays , low muscle tone and a hearing loss in one ear.

The first thing that I would suggest is to get the child evaluated by a developmental pediatrician as well as to contact the local early intervention office.    He sounds like he needs therapy to strengthen his muscles.

Check out my article about raising a child with developmental delays. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article...

Also, not sure of your location, but you may want to check out my son's school website to get some additional information on plans of action or services that are available out there for children with developmental delays. www.meetingstreet.org

Answer 3

I dont think development has anything to do with being born premature.  I was 2 months premature.

In some ways, I developed faster..  for example.. a friend of mine was born in June, I was born in September..  he was 3 months ahead of me (he was not premie).. but we were learning to walk at the same time.  I learned basic reading skills before going to school, while in first and second grade, many other kids struggled with basic books, I was reading "chapter" books.

Kids develop at different rates, regardless of being born premature or not.  There are guidelines for what age range a child should learn things, like sitting up, walking, talking, etc.

This kid sounds like he may have some kind of developmental disability tho.  Or he may be suffering from poor nutrtion.

Maybe you can find a way to discuss your concerns with his parents.  Point out that he doesnt seem as well developed as the other children his age.  It would be up to them to get him examined by a Dr to determine what's wrong.