What does growth spurt mean

A growth spurt is a time during which your baby has a more intense period of growth. During this time, they may want to nurse more frequently , change their sleep patterns, and generally be fussier. Keep in mind that growth during the first year is not just about size, but also about development. During periods when babies are working on learning new skills you may see some of these same indicators. Of course, there is a range, and some babies may have less dramatic or noticeable spurts.

Seeing the following signs can mean that a burst of growth or development is in the works. Before you know it your tiny little newborn will be a dare we say it? Luckily they have you there to keep them fed, love them through the challenges, and celebrate their amazing growth. You may have questions about feeding your baby.

How much should they eat? How often should they eat? Will they ever be on a schedule? Here is what you…. If you're a new parent, you're likely sleep deprived. 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. So it can be reassuring to know that most kids who are short or delayed in development are healthy and normal. For example, shorter parents tend to have shorter children and not all kids develop at the same rate.

If you have concerns, talk with your doctor. The doctor can examine your child, ask questions about your family history and, if needed, order tests to see if there's a medical condition affecting growth. The doctor may check your child's growth more often or refer your child to a pediatric endocrinologist a doctor who treats growth disorders. Reviewed by: Madhu Desiraju, MD.

Larger text size Large text size Regular text size. What Is Growth? What's Normal? At the Doctor's Office Beginning in infancy, kids will visit a doctor for regular checkups.

Critical to kids' overall health and wellness are: Enough rest: Sleep patterns vary by age and individual child. But most kids need an average of 10 to 12 hours of sleep per night. Are growth spurts the same as feeding spurts? Apart from feeding more, what are the other signs of a growth spurt? What should I do during a growth spurt? Is it a growth spurt, or is something wrong? Visit our community. Is your baby feeding enough? Take a look at our video to learn the signs your baby is growing at a healthy rate.

More baby videos. References ABM. Breastfeeding twins. Association of Breastfeeding Mothers. Formula feeding: 6 weeks to a year. Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics 2 , Hermanussen M. The analysis of short-term growth.

Horm Res IHS. Breastfeeding - growth and development. Provider information. Infant growth in length follows prolonged sleep and increased naps. Why does my baby suddenly want to nurse constantly? Breastfeeding: my baby's feeding pattern has changed. National Childbirth Trust. Breastfeeding: the first few days.