Preterm babies may take longer to reach developmental milestones than babies born at full term. This is often because of the gap in their age, between that of their chronological age (when they were born) versus when you were expecting to have your child, the corrected age. The other important thing to remember is that your baby is smart and did learn while in the NICU. Some of the differences in development reflect their learning while in the NICU. This is very exciting as your baby can continue to learn and will continue to learn after they leave the NICU. 

Healthcare professionals will regularly assess your baby's development to make sure they are progressing well. These assessments should reassure you about your baby's health and help to address any concerns you may have. Some children might need extra assistance from physiotherapists⍰, occupational therapists⍰, and or speech therapists⍰. These specialists may provide gentle exercises or activities to help your baby develop their movements and strength. Additionally, therapies such as hippotherapy (horse riding therapy), music therapy, and swim therapy can be beneficial in supporting your child. 

It is important for you to know what your child’s therapists are working on and to learn the exercises you can do at home. These exercises should become part of your daily routine, done several times a day. You know your child better than anyone, and by practicing these activities, you can become the expert they need to help them grow and progress. Your involvement makes all the difference.

A few examples of preemie milestones include: 

• First skin-to-skin contact
• First day without needing the incubator⍰
• First day at home
• First sleep in their own bed
• First words
• First day at daycare and/or kindergarten
• First day of school

You will have many special “firsts” with your baby, and even small milestones will feel like big wins. Make sure to celebrate these moments, both in your baby’s growth and in your own journey together.