#asktheexpert twin babies born in 32 weeks what milestone they need to achive by this time and in coming months...and what is the corrected age

Question

Accepted Answer

Developmental milestones for preterm babies can vary, but here are some general expectations for a 3-month-old preterm baby:

1. **Motor Skills:**
   - **Head Control:** A 3-month-old preterm baby may be working on improving head control. They might be able to briefly lift their head when lying on their tummy.
   - **Increased Arm and Leg Movements:** Babies at this age typically start showing more purposeful arm and leg movements.

2. **Visual Development:**
   - **Following Objects:** The baby may start to visually track moving objects with their eyes.
   - **Increased Eye Contact:** Improved eye contact with caregivers is a positive sign of social development.

3. **Sensory Development:**
   - **Increased Sensitivity:** Babies might become more responsive to touch, sound, and visual stimuli.
   - **Exploratory Mouth Movements:** Mouthing or sucking on hands and fingers is a normal part of sensory exploration.

4. **Social and Emotional Development:**
   - **Social Smiles:** By 3 months, many babies, including preterm infants, can exhibit social smiles in response to interactions with caregivers.
   - **Increased Cooing Sounds:** Some babies start to make cooing or babbling sounds.

5. **Feeding Skills:**
   - **Improved Sucking Reflex:** Preterm babies may show better coordination in sucking and swallowing during feeding.

6. **Sleep Patterns:**
   - **More Predictable Sleep Patterns:** While sleep patterns can vary, some babies may start to develop more predictable sleep-wake cycles.

It's essential to keep in mind that premature infants may reach developmental milestones at their adjusted age rather than their actual age. Adjusted age is calculated based on the baby's due date rather than their birth date.

Every baby is unique, and developmental progress can vary widely. If you have concerns about your preterm baby's development, it's crucial to consult with your pediatrician. Regular developmental check-ups can help monitor your baby's progress, and early intervention services may be recommended if needed.