Multiple Influences on Development and Learning for Hospitalized and Chronically Ill Youth

The majority population of families staying in the Fort Wayne, Indiana Ronald McDonald House are families of babies receiving neonatal care in the Parkview Regional Medical Center NICU. Out of all Ronald McDonald House guests, primary pediatric hospitalizations were found in pediatric oncology, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric intensive care (Cosquer & Jousselme, 2022). Hospitalizations and chronic illnesses can have lasting impacts on children and families. These range from psychological disorders and trauma for parents and children to developmental and learning delays.

The length of hospitalization for neonatal intensive care depends on how early the baby was born and what complications or health problems are discovered. Corresponding with health issues are long term effects on development and learning. Preterm birth can cause lasting issues or delays including, learning delays, communication delays, behavioral issues, and physical (gross or fine motor) delays (March of Dimes, 2024). These potential complications show the need for future preventative care and interventions in early childhood. Ways to support families and children are to connect them to local resources and support, encourage prenatal screening and testing, and establish monitoring and follow-up care for released infants.

The National Library of Medicine studied the academic performances of hospitalized children. Understandably, children who are frequently hospitalized or who have chronic illnesses have decreased school attendance and therefore, less access to education. Additionally, children with chronic conditions experienced increased perinatal and socioeconomic difficulties (Hu et al., 2021). The study revealed that children with extended or frequent hospitalizations are at greater risk of poor academic achievement (Hu et al., 2021). These results signify the need for academic incorporation into hospitals in the form of teachers, tutors, experiences or activities, and other learning materials. All children should have access to a rich, engaging environment.

Sources

Cosquer, M & Jousselme, C (2022). Parents' Experience in the Ronald McDonald Houses. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

March of Dimes (2025). Long Term Health Effects of Preterm Birth. March of Dimes. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/birth/long-term-health-effects-preterm-birth

Hu, N., Fardell, J., Wakefield, C.E., Marshall, G.M., Bell, J.C., Nassar, N., & Lingam, R (2021). School Academic Performance of Children Hospitalized With a Chronic Condition. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8862027/