Importance of Tracking Baby's Developmental Milestones

Milestones and Preterm Babies: 1. Due Date vs. Birth Date: Milestones are typically determined by a baby's due date, not their actual birth date. This means if a baby is born prematurely, like at week 34, they might reach their developmental milestones a bit later compared to a full-term baby. 2. Adjusted Age: To account for this, doctors often use what's called "adjusted age" or "corrected age" for preterm babies. It's like taking into consideration the weeks the baby was born early. So, if your baby is 6 weeks premature, you might track milestones as if they were born 6 weeks later than their actual birth date. 3. Keep Monitoring: It's important to track milestones based on your baby's adjusted age for the first few years. This helps you get a more accurate picture of their development. 4. Unique Timing: Every baby is unique. Some preterm babies catch up quickly, while others may take a bit more time to reach certain milestones. 5. Consult with a Pediatrician: Your pediatrician can