Every baby discharged from the neonatal unit returns for a consultation with the pediatrician fourteen days after going home. A home visit by a midwife is recommended to support parents during the first weeks after discharge.
Follow-up
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Preterm infants are also followed up by other services and organizations, such as the COS, Kind & Gezin etc.
Due to premature birth, there is an increased risk that development progresses les smoothly or differently compared to children born after a full-term pregnancy. This may involve growth and feeding difficulties, motor problems, language and learning challenges, visual and hearing impairments, behavioral issues, and more. Early detection of any developmental concerns is essential in order to provide optimal support for these children.
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Specialized home support
Specialized home support can also play an important role in the follow‑up of a premature baby. Want to learn more about specialized home support? Visit the following page: Who can support me.
Childcare facilities
If a premature baby has medical or psychosocial needs, parents can turn to childcare services with an inclusive approach. Inclusive childcare refers to the care of children with specific support needs together with children without such needs. Children can play alongside peers and friends in a regular childcare setting, with adequate attention to their individual rhythm and needs. The aim is to provide tailored care within a warm and stimulating environment.
In Flanders, there are 16 recognized childcare centers that offer this type of support.
These facilities are recognized by and operate under the supervision of Kind & Gezin.
West Flanders
- De Blauwe Lelie, Brugge
- Kinderdagverblijf 't Stationnetje, Roeselare
- Kinderdagverblijf Auricula, Kortrijk
East Flanders
Flemish Brabant:
Antwerp:
Limburg:
Administration
A considerable amount of administrative work is involved in the follow‑up of a former preterm infant. An overview has been compiled outlining which matters need to be arranged and which financial supports or allowances may apply.
Feeding
The transition from breastfeeding or bottle‑feeding to solid foods can be somewhat more challenging for preterm babies than for full‑term infants. For this reason, a clear overview has been created with tips to support parents during this process.