| Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... |
Babies grow and develop at an amazing pace during their first year of life. They not only gain weight and length, but also learn new skills and abilities that mark their progress. In this article, we will explain what growth spurts are, when they happen, how to recognize them, and what to do to support your baby during these periods
Growth spurts are rapid increases in your baby’s physical size, such as weight, length, and head circumference. They usually occur in the first year of life, when your baby is growing faster than at any other time.
During a growth spurt, your baby may gain up to 200 grams in a week, or up to 2.5 centimeters in a month. Growth spurts can also affect your baby’s brain development, as new connections and pathways are formed.
According to Dr. Michelle Lampl, an expert in human growth and development, “Babies go to sleep, and they wake up longer!” Growth spurts can last for about one to two weeks, or could be as short as one day to a couple of days. I hope this helps you understand more about baby growth spurts.
When do Growth Spurts Happen?
There is no fixed schedule for growth spurts, as every baby is different and grows at their own pace. However, some common times when growth spurts may occur are:
- 1 to 3 weeks
- 6 to 8 weeks
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 9 months
These are just general ranges, and your baby may experience a growth spurt before or after these times. Your baby’s pediatrician will monitor your baby’s growth and development at each well visit, using charts that compare your baby’s measurements to other babies of the same age and sex.
What are the Signs of a Growth Spurt?
Growth spurts can affect your baby’s behavior and needs, as they require more energy and stimulation to support their growth. Some signs that your baby may be going through a growth spurt are:
- Increased hunger. Your baby may want to eat more often, or for longer periods, than usual.
- Frequent night wakings. Your baby may wake up more often during the night, and need more feedings or comfort to fall back asleep.
- Fussiness and irritability. Your baby may be more clingy, moody, or restless than usual, and cry more easily.
- Changes in nap patterns. Your baby may nap more or less than usual, depending on their energy level and mood.
How Long Do Growth Spurts Last?
Growth spurts in babies are short periods of rapid growth, typically lasting 2 to 7 days, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). They’re most noticeable in the first year, often hitting around 1-3 weeks, 6-8 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.
During these spurts, babies might gain weight and length faster—up to 5-7 ounces and 1-1.5 inches monthly in early infancy—with the peak often around day 3 or 4 before slowing down. A study in Pediatrics supports this, showing growth bursts usually span 2-5 days.
In toddlerhood (ages 1-3), growth spurts become less predictable but can still last a few days to a week, tied to milestones like walking. The World Health Organization notes that nutrition drives these spurts.
What Should I Do During a Growth Spurt?
The best thing you can do during a growth spurt is to follow your baby’s cues and provide them with what they need. Some tips to help you and your baby cope with growth spurts are:
- Feed your baby on demand. Don’t worry about sticking to a strict feeding schedule, or limiting the amount or duration of feedings.
- Comfort your baby. Your baby may need more cuddles, kisses, and soothing during a growth spurt, as they may feel insecure or overwhelmed by the changes.
- Be flexible with your baby’s sleep. Your baby’s sleep patterns may change during a growth spurt, and you may need to adjust your expectations and routines accordingly.
- Take care of yourself. Growth spurts can be stressful and tiring for you, as you may have to deal with more feedings, wakings, and crying. It is important that you also take care of your own physical and emotional well-being, as this will help you cope better and be more patient and responsive to your baby.
Is it a Growth Spurt or is Something Wrong?
Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if your baby’s behavior and needs are due to a growth spurt, or if there is something else going on. If you are concerned about your baby’s growth and development, or if you notice any of the following signs, you should contact your baby’s pediatrician:
- Your baby is not gaining weight or growing as expected, or is losing weight.
- Your baby is not meeting the developmental milestones for their age, or is regressing in their skills.
- Your baby is not feeding well, or is refusing to eat or drink.
- Your baby is vomiting, has diarrhea, or has a fever.
- Your baby is excessively sleepy, lethargic, or unresponsive.
- Your baby has a rash, a cough, or any other signs of illness or infection.
Conclusion: What to Expect from Your Babies Growth Spurts
Growth spurts are normal and natural phases of your baby’s growth and development. They can cause some changes and challenges for you and your baby, but they are also signs that your baby is thriving and learning new things.
By following your baby’s cues and providing them with the support and love they need, you can help them get through these periods and enjoy the amazing journey of watching them grow.
Types of Toys for Different Developmental Milestones
Toys help children learn new skills, explore their creativity, and develop their social and emotional intelligence. In this article, we’ll explore some ideas for types of toys that can support different developmental milestones.
