Premature Infants

Babies born prematurely, or those who have required neonatal intensive or special care, are at increased risk of longer-term developmental challenges, particularly in motor development. At Lumi Kids, we provide early developmental assessment to identify infants who may be at higher risk and support them with the right therapies at the right time.

Physiotherapy can help premature infants build the foundations for gross motor development, support postural control and movement quality, and guide families in how to create everyday opportunities for development. Moira supports high-risk infant developmental follow-up using specialised assessments including Prechtl’s General Movements Assessment and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE), (learn more here - link to assessments page please)  both of which are used in early identification pathways for infants at risk of motor difficulties, including cerebral palsy. 

Support may include practical advice about:

• play and toy selection to encourage reaching, rolling, sitting and early mobility

• environmental modifications at home and in community settings to create safe and motivating opportunities for movement

• positioning (including safe swaddling and advice on baby carriers), handling and floor-time opportunities

• equipment sourcing where needed

• therapy across a range of settings, including home visits, community-based therapy and hydrotherapy

The goal is not only to monitor development, but to help each baby participate more confidently in everyday family life while supporting the best possible gross motor outcomes.