Performance of extremely low birthweight children at 5 years of age on the Miller Assessment for Preschoolers

The purpose of this geographically defined national study was to evaluate the performance of extremely low birthweight children (ELBW < 1000g) born in Iceland in 1991-1995 and compare them to a cohort of matched control children born full term. The Miller Assessment for Preschoolers (MAP) was used to provide an overall profile of 32 ELBW children and 55 control children at 5 years of age. The results indicated that score patterns on the MAP between ELBW and normal birthweight children differ. The differences were significant on the Total Score, and the Foundations, Coordination, and Complex-Tasks Indices. This study found that the ELBW group had specific problems in basic motor tasks, coordination, and fine motor skills. The results validate the need for early assessment, regular follow-up, and consultation to promote optimal task performance and social participation of children born prematurely.