Preterm Birth Information for Education Professionals

Learning outcomes:

• To define preterm birth
• To understand that the more preterm a baby is born, the greater the risk of developmental problems later in life

2. Educational outcomes following preterm birth [opens in new window]

Learning outcomes:

• To understand that children born preterm are at risk of special educational needs and poor academic attainment
• To identify which school subjects children born preterm are most likely to struggle with

3. Cognitive and motor development following preterm birth [opens in new window]

Learning outcomes:

• To understand that children born preterm may have difficulties with IQ, processing speed, working memory, and hand-eye coordination
• To understand how these difficulties may impact on learning

4. Behavioural, social and emotional outcomes following preterm birth [opens in new window]

Learning outcomes:

• To understand that children born preterm may be withdrawn, anxious, and inattentive, and have difficulties developing relationships with their peers
• To understand that children born preterm don’t tend to be disruptive so their needs may be overlooked in the classroom

5. How can education professionals support preterm children? [opens in new window]

Learning outcomes:

• To understand what kind of strategies might be helpful for supporting children born preterm
• To understand that preterm birth is a risk factor and an individual assessment is always necessary to provide appropriate support