Sensory Processing Patterns in Preterm Toddlers

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the sensory processing patterns of preterm toddlers aged 12 to 24 months and compare them with term peers. Sensory processing difficulties in this population may contribute to developmental delays and behavioral challenges later in life; thus, early identification is critical. Method: A total of 49 preterm toddlers born before 37 weeks of gestation and 45 healthy term toddlers were included in the study. Sensory processing skills were evaluated using the Toddler Sensory Profile-2, a caregiver-reported assessment tool that examines responses to sensory input across multiple domains, including auditory, visual, tactile, vestibular, and oral. The sensory quadrants of low registration, sensory sensitivity, sensory avoidance, and sensory seeking were also analyzed. Results: Atypical sensory processing patterns were seen more frequently in preterm toddlers than in their peers (p<0.05). Atypical sensory processing patterns in the low registration, sensory sensitivity, sensory avoidance, and sensory seeking sensory quadrants were statistically higher in preterm toddlers (p<0.05). In addition, atypical sensory processing patterns were statistically more common in preterm toddlers in all sensory processing areas, such as auditory, visual, tactile, verbal, behavioral, and movement (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights that preterm toddlers process sensory stimuli atypically compared to their counterparts. These differences may hinder the child's ability to adapt to their environment and affect their participation in daily activities.