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Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of the SAFE Early Intervention in Infants at Risk: A Randomised Controlled
Ramazan Yildiz1, Ayse Yildiz1, Umut Apaydin2
1Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey.
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|September 2, 2025
Summary
The SAFE early intervention approach significantly improved motor and language development in infants at risk for cerebral palsy (CP). This method, emphasizing active infant participation and family involvement, shows promise before a formal CP diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Early intervention is crucial for infants at risk of cerebral palsy (CP) to enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- Approaches focusing on infant engagement and family collaboration are more effective than traditional methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the SAFE early intervention's impact on cognitive, language, and motor development in infants at risk for CP.
- To compare the SAFE approach against conventional neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) practices.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 46 infants at risk for CP.
- Infants were assigned to either the SAFE intervention group (n=23) or a control group receiving NDT-based care (n=23).
- Developmental assessments using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III) were conducted at 6 and 12 months.
Main Results:
- The SAFE group showed significant improvements in motor and language scores post-intervention.
- Compared to controls, the SAFE group had significantly higher scores across all Bayley-III domains at 3 months.
- The SAFE group demonstrated significant motor gains over time, while the control group showed significant cognitive improvements.
Conclusions:
- The SAFE early intervention model is a feasible and effective approach for infants at risk for CP.
- This model, emphasizing active infant participation and family engagement, supports improved motor development outcomes, particularly before a formal diagnosis.
