Early in development premature infants often fight medical problems. Some preemies will be diagnosed with a variety of neuro-motor conditions such as cerebral palsy in infancy. Learning disabilities and behavioral problems are also common among children born too early.
Parents also face challenges with their premature infants.
Early in development, premature infants are easily over-stimulated. When handling prematures, parents often follow their instincts to cuddle, rock, coo and sing only to be confused by an infant who reacts by becoming distressed or shutting out the world. This is because the infant s body and nervous system are designed to be inside the safe and muted environment of mother s womb, and not a world filled with loud noises, bright lights, and handling, however gentle it may be. Later in development, parents sometimes have to continue to actively support their children as they cope with learning, behavioral, or neurological problems. Some drugs, including alcohol, are associated with long-term developmental consequences, which also have to be actively supported.