Low newborn health score linked to poor year 3 NAPLAN results

Children who score in the lower range of the newborn health test, called the Apgar test, are more likely to score at or below the National Minimum Standard on the NAPLAN test in year 3, according to Australian research. The Apgar test is usually done straight after a baby is born is made up of five measures - heart rate, respiratory effort, reflex irritability, muscle tone and skin colour - with a rating of 0, 1 or 2 is given for each measure up to a maximum score of 10 overall. The researchers found that babies who score 6 or less are at higher risk of scoring at or below the National Minimum Standard on the NAPLAN test at eight years old compared to those who score 10. The authors say the findings suggest there is a need for more immediate intensive follow-up of babies born with Apgar scores below 6, and a need for educational support at school age.