When do growth spurts occur in babies

If your baby seems to fit that sweet little onesie one day, and have it busting at the seams the next, it may not be your sleep-deprived eyes playing tricks on you. Baby growth spurts are aplenty in those first sweet 12 months. Three month growth spurts, as well as six and nine month growth spurts, are especially common. And when a baby growth spurt strikes, it can be fast and furious; babies can measurably gain weight and length in just 24 hours, says Michelle Lampl, a doctor and growth researcher at Emory University in Atlanta.

Her studies show that tots can sprout as much as nine millimetres in length in just one day. Wondering if your babe is in the midst of a spurt? In the day or so before a big growth spurt, some babies sleep more than usual.

Some babies prefer food to snoozing during a growth spurt. Even if she was starting to sleep longer stretches at night, your baby may suddenly want to eat around the clock again. Generally, girls hit puberty earlier than boys, though some girls might lag behind their peers in breast development or getting their first period. All of this is usually normal. Try to avoid comparing growth among siblings or other children.

Drawing attention to height, for example, will only make kids feel self-conscious about their size. Encourage your kids to accept their own growth and development. Explain that some kids grow and develop at different rates — and late bloomers usually catch up eventually.

Kids have many questions about growth, from why their teeth fall out to tough or embarrassing topics like breast development or sweating. Answer questions honestly and even start talks about growth to help kids understand the many changes they're facing.

This will help them accept the changes positively. If you're uncomfortable discussing these topics, your kids may think there's something shameful about the changes they go through and might be less likely to bring their concerns to you.

Kids who are short often face teasing by peers and may need help coping. You can help by supporting your child's self-esteem. For example, it might be hard for a small boy to make the football team. But focusing on alternatives, such as soccer or tennis, may make him feel better about himself and what he can do.

Try to understand your child's feelings and keep the lines of communication open. Another way to boost your child's mood is to encourage activities that don't focus on height or weight. Special skills and individual qualities, such as musical talent or a love of literature, are things to be proud of too. Some parents worry about their child's growth and development. If your baby is peeing and pooping well, you can assume supply is not an issue and take comfort in knowing the feeding frenzy will pass.

Weight them without diapers and clothing, preferably using a baby scale. By Elizabeth Florio Updated December 19, Save Pin FB More. Pediatrician Measuring Baby Weight on Scale. By Elizabeth Florio. Be the first to comment! No comments yet.

Close this dialog window Add a comment. Add your comment Cancel Submit. Close this dialog window Review for. Back to story Comment on this project. Tell us what you think Thanks for adding your feedback.