If your baby was born early, developmental milestones look a bit different for the first couple of years. Research suggests using your baby's "corrected age"—counting from their due date rather than birth date—to get an accurate picture of where they should be. This matters because premature babies are at higher risk for developmental delays, and tracking progress the right way helps your pediatrician spot any concerns early. It's also worth asking about vision and hearing screenings, since preterm babies benefit from extra attention in these areas. Catching delays early and starting support makes a real difference in how your child develops.