Communication Tips for Parents With Premature Babies

Your premature baby may look so tiny and fragile that you may find it hard to imagine him ever talking to you, but your communication journey together began even before his first cry and the first time he saw you. Born before 37 weeks, your preemie may spend time in a neonatal intensive care unit, often called an NICU, until he grows mature enough to survive on his own. Although this can feel like an anxious time, remember you can still communicate with him. He may be tiny, but from 28 weeks gestation he can hear you, feel your touch, recognize your smell and see your face.

  1. Bonding

    • Successful bonding, the emotional link between you and your baby, leads to good communication, notes the KidsHealth website. Your touch tells your preemie you're there. Try Kangaroo care, where you hold her on your chest to establish skin-to-skin contact. This helps her feel safe with you even though you may not be able to cuddle her in your arms or breastfeed.

    First Communication

    • An unborn child can already open his eyes at 28 weeks gestation. When your preemie looks at you, make eye contact to help establish a connection with him. He soon learns to watch your face, and prefers it to others. His ability to hear developed at 18 weeks of pregnancy, so your voice is familiar and soothing to him already. Sing to him, read stories and talk gently. Although he cannot use words yet, you may find he relaxes at the sound of your voice.

    Communication Signals

    • Watch your premature baby's behavior and listen to any sounds she makes to understand what she tells you. Notice when she yawns, hiccups or loses eye contact. These signals warn you she should rest; she needs more sleep than a full-term baby does, resting for up to 20 hours a day. Avoid letting her become too tired, as she needs her energy for the growth and development of both her body and her brain. Her early cries and squeaks may communicate that she feels uncomfortable or hungry. Respond promptly to help her remain relaxed and content.

    Milestone Checklists

    • Your preemie baby develops his skills in the same order as any other baby. A checklist can help you confirm that his development is progressing, but adjust his age to find where he should be. For example, if your baby was born at 34 weeks, he was 6 weeks early. Subtract 6 weeks from his actual age and use this adjusted age when you look at the milestone chart, advises HealthyChildren.org.

    Risks

    • If your baby was born extremely prematurely -- or before 32 weeks -- she may be at extra risk of language impairment, according to the "Journal of Speech, Language and Hearing Research," so keep an eye on her skills during her first three years. Pay attention to whether she begins to babble, play with sounds and understand some words during her first year. She should be able to use at least 20 single words by the time she reaches 2 years old. Consult your health care practitioner as soon as possible if you suspect she is struggling with language skills, as early professional intervention can help her reach her potential.

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