Educational Implications of Preterm Birth: A National Sample of 8- to 11-Year-Old Children Born Prematurely and Their Full-Term Peers

IntroductionPreterm birth remains a significant public health issue, with children born prematurely experiencing health and educational difficulties throughout childhood. The specific aim of this study was to evaluate the educational implications of actual or potential health risks of premature birth for children in middle childhood compared with children of the same age who were born at term.MethodsThis descriptive study is a secondary analysis of the 2011/2012 National Survey of Children's Health, specifically an 8- to 11-year-old subset, comparing children identified as being born premature and those born at term. Educational and health outcome variables were explored.ResultsPreterm birth negatively affects the educational experience of children born prematurely. Logistic modeling provides insight into predicting risk.DiscussionCollaboration between primary care providers, educators, and families is recommended to improve care coordination and address educational need of children born premature.