Motor skills and outcomes of activities and participation in children and adults born preterm without cerebral palsy: A systematic review.
Kari Anne I Evensen, Silje Dahl Benum, Henriette Paulsen et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined observational evidence on whether motor skills are associated with activities and participation in children and adults born preterm (< 37 weeks’ gestation) without cerebral palsy. The review included 36 original articles published from 1988 to 2025, covering 56 reported associations. Half of the associations (28/56) were positive, while 10 (18%) were inconsistent and 18 (32%) showed no association. Findings most often concerned learning and applying knowledge, and general tasks and demands.
Key findings
- Of 56 reported associations, 28 (50%) were positive, 10 (18%) inconsistent, and 18 (32%) showed no association.
- Associations were reported most often for learning and applying knowledge and for general tasks and demands.
Why it matters
The review indicates that motor skills may relate to how people born preterm without cerebral palsy manage everyday activities and participation. Considering these domains alongside motor performance may help frame assessment and identify areas relevant to support, while the mixed findings underscore that associations are not consistent across outcomes.
What to keep in mind
The evidence came from observational studies, and findings were mixed: nearly one-third of reported associations showed no association. The review excluded randomized controlled trials.