my baby was born premature 30 weeks..at 1.2 kgs now he is 6 months old weight is 6 kg.. he is not properly holding neck ..

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Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon for premature babies to have delays in certain developmental milestones, including gaining full neck control. However, if a 6-month-old premature baby still doesn't have adequate neck support, it's essential to address this concern. Here are some steps you can take:

1. **Consult with Pediatrician:**
   - Schedule a visit with your pediatrician to discuss your concerns. They can assess your baby's overall development, including motor skills, and provide guidance.

2. **Physical Therapy Evaluation:**
   - Depending on the severity of the delay, your pediatrician may recommend a referral to a pediatric physical therapist. A physical therapist can assess your baby's muscle tone and provide exercises to promote neck strength and control.

3. **Tummy Time:**
   - Incorporate tummy time into your baby's daily routine. Place your baby on their tummy for short periods while they are awake and supervised. This helps strengthen neck and upper body muscles.

4. **Supportive Play:**
   - Engage in activities that encourage your baby to use and strengthen their neck muscles. For example, encourage reaching for toys while lying on their back or sitting with support.

5. **Hold Upright:**
   - Hold your baby in an upright position when they are awake. This allows them to practice holding their head up and gradually builds neck strength.

6. **Use Supportive Devices:**
   - Consider using supportive devices such as Boppy pillows or other recommended baby positioning products during supervised play to provide additional support.

7. **Avoid Excessive Use of Baby Gear:**
   - Limit the time your baby spends in devices such as swings, bouncers, or car seats, as excessive use of these can limit opportunities for natural muscle development.

8. **Encourage Visual Stimuli:**
   - Place interesting toys or objects within your baby's line of sight to encourage them to turn their head and follow visual stimuli.

Remember that every baby develops at their own pace