This study is testing if combining oral motor stimulation (gentle exercises for mouth muscles) with a reading curriculum can help preterm infants born between 23 and 30 weeks. Researchers want to see if these interventions improve how well babies feed by mouth and their language development. The study will compare three groups: one receiving oral motor stimulation and a reading curriculum, another receiving only oral motor stimulation, and a control group receiving standard care. Researchers will use LENA recordings (Language Environment Analysis) to measure language exposure and infant vocalizations. They hope that the combined approach will lead to earlier oral feeding, fewer days in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), and better language skills at 12 and 24 months. You may be eligible if your baby is born between 23 and 30 weeks and you speak English or Spanish. The study is currently unclear on its recruitment status and plans to enroll 124 participants.

Study design

This is a randomized controlled trial comparing three different approaches. It plans to enroll 124 participants.

What's involved

Participants will receive oral motor stimulation and/or a reading curriculum starting around 33 weeks corrected age. LENA recordings will be taken, and feedback will be provided.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Researchers will measure language development at 12 and 24 months after birth, and parent-reported behavioral outcomes at 24 months.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.