According to Wendy Burd
o-Hartman, a neurodevelopmental pediatrician at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, many premature children develop learning disabilities such as trouble paying attention, impulsivity, and sensory issues related to loud noises, bright lights, and touch. Memorizing math facts in particular is difficult for some. This is caused because the lower the baby's birth weight and gestational age the more likely the baby is to develop learning difficulties as the child ages. About half of preemies weighing less than 3 1/2 pounds at birth develop learning disabilities or behavioral issues, says Cathy Boatman, a child development specialist at the Children's Medical Center of Dallas. If a preemie had medical complications after delivery, or if his mother abused alcohol or drugs during pregnancy, that can also increase his risk of learning or behavior challenges.