Recently published work from the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI) reveals that children born at later gestations, 32-36 weeks gestation, have differences in their academic performance and behaviour when compared to children born at term. You can find and read the paper here:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2826283
Whilst we continue to work with the Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance on safely reducing rates of preterm and early term birth across Australia this work doesn't take away from the fact that each year tens of thousands of Australian children are born early or sick. The majority of them falling into the 'mid to late preterm' category.
Most Follow-up Programs that exist continue to focus on the sickest and tiniest babies often leaving a big gap! Whilst we continue to work with others to drive change in this area, it does take time. The families living the experience today need help, support and guidance. Here is what you can do:
Tell your healthcare professionals your child was born early or sick and ask them to consider that when making a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Join our Nurturing NICU Families program to help support early development and wellbeing, it's free! Info here: https://www.tinysparkswa.org.au/nurturing-regional-nicu-families
If you have access to follow up, go to the appointments prepared with questions.
If you are concerned organise a check in…
- You can self refer to go on a public waitlist for speech, OT, physio, etc.
- Wait lists can be long, better to get your name on a list and decide not to go when a spot opens up, than wait to put your name down.
- Don't feel like you are being listened to, you know your child best, get another opinion.
- You don't need a diagnosis to access services.
- Private options are available.
- Not sure who to see, what to say or where to go? Connect with us for peer support and we can help with general advice.
Consider research opportunities.
We are working hard with others who are passionate and dedicated to drive change and create new opportunities, watch this space for more to come on that in 2025.
