Prematurity Part 1 of 2: Developmental Movement Availability

1. Head & Neck Control

• Observation: The infant displays minimal ability to stabilize the head independently. When supported at the base of the skull, head position drifts with gravity, indicating immature cervical extensor and flexor activation.

• Developmental Note: Consistent with very early corrected age (<34–36 weeks). Midline head control is still developing.

• Potential Readiness Indicators: Brief moments of chin tuck and eye-level gaze when externally supported.

2. Limb Posture

• Observation: Arms and legs are primarily extended away from the midline, with occasional mild flexion at elbows and hips. Hands show intermittent fisting and open-palm movement.

• Developmental Note: Extension-dominant posture suggests tone immaturity; preterm infants of this stage benefit from facilitated flexion positioning to promote neuromotor integration.

3. Core Tone & Trunk Stability

• Observation: Minimal trunk activation when lifted; abdominal and intercostal musculature appear underdeveloped. No spontaneous trunk rotation or anti-gravity flexion observed.

• Developmental Note: Consistent with low axial tone expected in a preterm infant before term-equivalent age.

4. Reflex Responses

• Observation: Potential startle response when touched abruptly on the forehead; likely intact palmar grasp reflex based on finger contact moments. Rooting reflex is not directly observed in still frames, but should be tested in a live assessment.

• Developmental Note: Reflexes appear present but immature, appropriate for age.

5. Environmental Responsiveness

• Observation: Infant maintains brief eye contact and gaze tracking toward the caregiver’s hand and face. Facial changes indicate recognition of touch and environmental changes.

• Developmental Note: Early visual engagement is present; sustained attention is limited but promising for the neurological maturity trajectory.

Overall Summary: