Throughout childhood, children grow steadily and develop new skills.
Each child’s growth and development happens at a different rate, but all children have growth spurts and periods of slow growth. Some children gain weight before they grow taller, while others will grow taller, and then gain weight.
It’s a good idea to pay attention to your children’s growth. Sudden weight gains or losses should be discussed with the doctor. A poor appetite for a long time could be a problem, but if the child has energy and feels okay, he or she is probably growing normally.
A child’s appetite may increase during a growth spurt; that’s a good time to provide additional healthful food or introduce new healthy foods.
To promote your children’s normal growth and development, schedule regular medical visits, serve nutritious foods, give them water to drink and encourage physical activity by playing together.
With you by their side, your children will grow healthy, active and happy.
A Message from the University of California Cooperative Extension.
