EX-PREMATURITY

• The term ‘Premature’ or ‘Preterm’ is used for children born at < 37 weeks of pregnancy

• Children born premature are at higher risk of having problems with their development, learning, behaviour and social aspects

• The more premature the baby is, the higher the risk

• Prematurity contributes to approximately 50% of all disabilities in childhood

• Ex-premature babies are at higher risk of having ADD/ADHD, ASD, Cerebral Palsy, Dyspraxia, Speech and Language Delay, Learning Disability, Special Educational Needs

• Seek help if your child is not meeting their developmental milestones

• All preterm children need developmental follow ups at regular intervals

• Problems from prematurity can affect learning, activity, employment and life outcomes

Management Options:

• Provide you with a clear diagnostic report detailing developmental profile of your child

• Offer you information about local and national sources of support and information

• Give you specific behavioural, educational and environmental strategies, as required

• Advice regarding review by other professionals e.g. OT where required

• Advice regarding further tests where required

• You could use medical report e.g. to gain extra support at school, claim allowances/benefits

• You will feel empowered to enable your child from this holistic assessment and action plan

• Present you with an option for follow-up/surveillance