Therapeutic Listening for Preterm Children with Sensory Dysregulation, Attention and Cognitive Problems

M Slevin1, K O'Connor2, R Segurado3

  • 1National Maternity Hospital, Holles St, Dublin 2, Ireland.

Irish Medical Journal
|April 17, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Therapeutic Listening (TL) improved sensory processing and attention in preterm children. This intervention shows promise for addressing developmental challenges in this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Neuroscience
  • Occupational Therapy

Background:

  • Children born preterm often experience sensory dysregulation and attention deficits.
  • These challenges can impact cognitive development and overall well-being.
  • Early intervention is crucial for optimizing outcomes in preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of Therapeutic Listening (TL) for preterm children.
  • To assess improvements in sensory processing and attention.
  • To explore the impact on cognitive and motor skills.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 22 preterm children (birth weight <1500g) aged 3-4 years.
  • Intervention group received Therapeutic Listening; control group did not.
  • Outcome measures included the Winnie-Dunn Sensory Profile, Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, and Reynell Attention Scale.

Main Results:

  • The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in sensory processing, particularly in sensation seeking, auditory, and tactile processing.
  • 100% of children in the intervention group showed improved attention levels.
  • Parents reported positive changes in their child's overall development.

Conclusions:

  • Therapeutic Listening (TL) is a feasible and effective intervention for preterm children.
  • TL can enhance sensory processing skills and attention levels.
  • Further research is warranted to explore effects on higher-level cognitive and motor domains.

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