Do they catch up?

Angienj20

My son was born 6 weeks early. He is now almost 4 months. In the beginning he was doing everything a newborn is supposed to do eat, gain weight, smile, coo, and track. I am now noticing he is a little behind. He holds his head up but doesn't do it during tummy time. His head seems unstable and flops a lot. He also buries his head and tries to lick his play mat. I was told by my son's doctor he might be behind due to the fact he was 6 weeks early. My question is does preemie stay behind or do they eventually catch up? I asked my son's doctor about this and all she said it depends on the child. If you had a preemie what was your experience?

maize27

My daughter was 6 weeks early too (she's almost 3 years old now) and im also an OT. Your LO's age should still be adjusted to reflect his prematurity at this point. Don't worry, he should indeed catch up! If you still have concerns in a couple months feel free to call your local early intervention agency. You do not need a doctors referral and they will tell you if there is anything to be concerned about. Keep up with the tummy time - you're doing a great job!

KaramelSutra

Premies are adjusted for their gestational age up to two years. Don't worry.

taraleanne

Have you checked out wonder weeks? There's an app and a book. It goes by due date and not by birth date and I find it very accurate! It might help to see how your LO is doing in regards to hitting milestones for his adjusted age. 

=Lee=B

My daughter was 5 weeks early.  We use her adjusted age when thinking about any milestones and determining if she is `behind`. 

jennme

I was born 4 weeks early and I caught up fine

Angienj20

Thank you all for your support! I am a first time mom and worried about everything. Hopefully I will get over it:) Heading back to work soon and I am worried sick about my son not doing what the other children are doing at his daycare. I know I shouldn't compare my child to other children but it is hard not to compare. I know he will fine and he will catch up when he is ready. Thank you all again!

=Lee=B

If it helps any my husband was born 6 weeks early (over 30 yrs ago).  He was in the gifted program all through school, went to a top university, and is now an engineer.

 

Angienj20

Actually that does help:) thank you!!

ashleymarie512

It's hard to remember that they're going to be behind in stuff. My LO was 10 weeks early and I always catch myself worrying that she's not doing the stuff a 4-mos old "should" do. Dr isn't concerned and said she's right on track, but it's hard to get in that frame of reference sometimes.

Angienj20

My LO had his four month check up yesterday and I brought up my concerns. The doctor said he is right on track and not to worry so much. I am happy that his is on track and doing great. We just have to work on tummy time. Hopefully he gets it soon.