Growth Spurts
Growth Spurts are another phase each baby will go through. This is when the baby is going to be growing both physically and mentally. During these spurts, the baby will grow rapidly in both height and weight in a short period of time. The timeframe of when the baby will go through a growth spurt may vary from baby to baby, however most common times are:
Some of the most common signs that your baby is going through a growth spurt is that the baby will always be hungry (either eating more per feeding or wanting to be fed more often). Sleep pattern change is another factor - the baby may be getting up more often to feed. Also since the baby is not sleeping properly, he/she may become more cranky. The good thing is that these growth spurts only last a few days so by the time you may recognize the baby is going through a growth spurt, it may also be over.
The best way to handle these periods of time is to just let the baby indicate what he/she wants. If the baby is hungry, feed the baby versus waiting until the next feeding. As the baby gets older (usually about 6 - 9 months) you may want to reduce the nighttime feedings so you don’t create a new pattern with the baby in which he/she can get up and be soothed with milk. However, if the baby is still getting up and you can tell he/she is hungry, then feed the baby. Keep looking for the hunger cues.
If you have any questions about your baby's growth, please contact your pediatrician. They can check to see if your baby is on track or if there may be a deeper issue. Just remember that each baby is different and may grow at a different rate than another. Also, if your baby is growing quickly in the first few months, your baby may tapper off as he/she gets older.
- 2 - 3 Weeks Old
- 4 - 6 Weeks Old
- 3 Months
- 6 Months
- 9 Months
- 12 Months
Some of the most common signs that your baby is going through a growth spurt is that the baby will always be hungry (either eating more per feeding or wanting to be fed more often). Sleep pattern change is another factor - the baby may be getting up more often to feed. Also since the baby is not sleeping properly, he/she may become more cranky. The good thing is that these growth spurts only last a few days so by the time you may recognize the baby is going through a growth spurt, it may also be over.
The best way to handle these periods of time is to just let the baby indicate what he/she wants. If the baby is hungry, feed the baby versus waiting until the next feeding. As the baby gets older (usually about 6 - 9 months) you may want to reduce the nighttime feedings so you don’t create a new pattern with the baby in which he/she can get up and be soothed with milk. However, if the baby is still getting up and you can tell he/she is hungry, then feed the baby. Keep looking for the hunger cues.
If you have any questions about your baby's growth, please contact your pediatrician. They can check to see if your baby is on track or if there may be a deeper issue. Just remember that each baby is different and may grow at a different rate than another. Also, if your baby is growing quickly in the first few months, your baby may tapper off as he/she gets older.
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