Bringing a baby into the world earlier than expected comes with big feelings and even bigger questions. Between the NICU, medical care, and the stop-and-start rhythm of those early days, many parents naturally wonder how this early beginning will affect their baby’s development.

Premature babies simply have a different developmental timeline. A baby who arrives eight weeks early has not had the same amount of time for sensory, neurological, and physical growth as a baby who stayed in the womb for the full 40 weeks. That is why therapists use adjusted age, also called gestational age. Adjusted age reflects how old a baby would be if they were born on their due date. It is a much more accurate way to understand what skills your baby is ready for, and it eases the pressure of comparing your premature baby to a full-term baby of the same calendar age.

When looking at a premature baby’s development, the most important thing is to use adjusted age, not just the age on the calendar. Adjusted age reflects how old your baby would be if they were born on their due date. This matters because premature babies simply start their developmental journey earlier than their bodies were ready for. When we look at milestones through adjusted age, we get a much clearer and more accurate picture of what skills your baby is truly ready for. It helps parents understand their baby’s progress without comparing them to expectations meant for full-term babies.

Early experiences also play a huge role in motor development. Babies who stay in the womb until term are constantly moving and receiving sensory input. They stretch, curl, push against the uterine walls, and shift positions. After birth, full-term babies continue to get rich movement experiences without parents having to think about it. They are picked up, carried around the house, held during daily routines, taken on stroller walks, and given plenty of natural opportunities to explore different positions. These small, everyday moments help build body awareness, head control, core strength, and coordination.

Premature babies often miss many of these experiences during their first weeks or months. In the NICU, babies spend long periods lying on their backs or sides while connected to medical equipment. They may not be able to push against surfaces, bring their hands to midline, or move freely. The gentle sway of being held and carried happens less often. Stroller rides, chest-to-chest contact, and floor play usually get delayed until the baby is medically stable. Even tummy time, one of the most important early positions for strengthening the neck, shoulders, and core, is often postponed or very limited.

Missing out on these sensory and movement experiences can influence how motor skills develop. A baby who did not have the chance to move through space, feel gravity, or explore different positions may simply need more time and intentional opportunities once they are home. This does not mean the baby is behind. It just means their starting point was different.

Feeding experiences can influence motor development too. Babies who needed feeding tubes, respiratory support, or extra medical care often move less or tire more easily. Because feeding happens with the whole body, challenges there can show up in strength, endurance, and overall movement.

At home, parents play a huge role in supporting development. Carrying your baby often provides gentle movement that helps with head control and stability. Stroller rides offer soothing sensory input. Short, frequent tummy time sessions help build strength. Side-lying play encourages reaching, bringing hands together, and exploring the body in space. Slow, predictable transitions help keep the nervous system regulated. These small daily experiences create the foundation for upcoming milestones.

Parenting a premature baby means navigating a unique journey filled with both challenges and meaningful moments of growth. Each bit of progress carries so much purpose. With patience, understanding, and the right support, premature babies can build strong motor skills on a timeline that fits their individual path. If you want step-by-step guidance, expert support, and a community that understands these milestones deeply, the Tot Spot Membership is here to support you every step of the way.