Periventricular leukomalacia is often seen in
premature infants when there is decreased blood flow
to the brain before, during or after birth. Due to
the decrease in blood flow to the periventricular
area of the brain, nerve fibers are damaged and can
effect muscle control throughout the body. PVL can
cause cerebral palsy and other brain functions can
be affected such as behavioral problems and
developmental delays.
The speech language pathologist will be able to evaluate your child
to determine if there are expressive language delays, receptive language
delays, oral motor delays and/or feeding delays. They can also observe
play skills and social skills to determine if they are within normal
limits. If your child is showing delays in an area a plan will be
developed to determine what goals should be addressed to advance his/her
skills.
To examine expressive language the therapist will observe how the
child communicates his wants/needs (pointing, sounds, words etc.) If a
delay is found the therapist could focus on improving oral
communication, gestures/sign language, simple communication devices or
other methods of communication depending on the child's needs.
Receptive language is what the child understands is being
communicated to him/her. Examples of this are (following simple
directions, identifying specific people/objects, identifying simple body
parts etc.) The speech therapist should identify if the child is delayed
and work on improving comprehension through play and various activities.
Oral motor skills are needed for sound production and feeding skills.
There are many techniques to improve these skills such as increasing
tongue mobility, lip closure, chewing, moving through textures etc.
depending on the problem areas.
You noted your child is not playing with toys. I would focus on
increasing his/her interactions with you. Have him make sounds with you,
play patty cake, peek-a-boo etc. If he participates in these games
incorporate a ball or car into the play. You lead play with the toy and
see if he will imitate. If his motor skills are effected you can help
move his/her hands/feet so your child is able to experience the action
for play.
We recommend talking with your child's doctor and a pediatric speech
language pathologist (SLP) regarding your concerns and having a speech
language evaluation. If speech therapy is recommended the SLP should be
able to provide suggestions regarding what toys/activities would be
appropriate for your child to improve development in areas of delay.