Assessment of motor control using kinematics analysis in preschool children born very preterm

The aim of this study was to better understand the mechanisms underlying the motor difficulties encountered by children born very preterm (VPT) without major sequelae from preterm birth. We compared the organization of visuo-manual aiming in preterm and full term (FT) preschool aged children based on performance and kinematics data. Twenty preterm (4 females, 16 males) and 20 sex- and age-matched FT children were divided into two age groups (mean age: 3 years-4 months, and 5 years). Comparison of the performance data showed differences between the older preterm and FT children. Kinematics data revealed differences in movement control between the younger preterm and FT children. The younger FT children did not differ from the older children. In addition, there was an effect of age on both performance and kinematics data for the preterm children only. The pattern of results suggests difficulties in integrating sensory information for movement control in the preterm groups, leading to a delay in the development of visuo-manual coordination. Kinematics analyses may help identify children at risk for poor school performance.