Birth Growth Spurt Ages: Baby Development in Early Years

Just as babies go from the size of a blueberry to fully-formed humans in the womb, they also grow quickly after during their first year of life. And while they're always growing, growth spurts happen at specific times in your baby's first year. You'll find that your baby is hungrier, fussier and goes through sleep regressions during these spurts and then you'll notice that they've gained weight and grown.

To help you anticipate and manage your baby's growth spurts, we spoke with two experts who outlined when growth spurts occur, what signs to watch for and how parents can take care of themselves during these often trying times.

What are Baby Growth Spurts?

Dr. Terri D. McFadden, MD, MPH, FAAP, the medical director of Reach Out and Read Georgia, general pediatrician, and professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine, says that most newborns will triple their weight in their first year.

However, this increased growth often happens in bursts. McFadden explains, "Babies grow steadily in certain periods such as the first couple of months but then they may have periods of rapid growth."

Birth Growth Spurt Ages

Dr. Jean Moorjani, a pediatrician at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, says that babies typically have growth spurts at about two weeks, six weeks, three months, six months and nine months old.

"During these stages of development, babies undergo physical growth, such as getting taller and longer, as well as changes in their weights," she explains. "Pediatricians track these changes using World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts during the first two years and can answer any questions parents have as their child grows."

Baby Growth Spurt Signs 

Parents can watch for several signs that indicate their baby is going through a growth spurt. According to McFadden, one of the main indicators is an increase in hunger.

"For parents, especially those who are breastfeeding, it might feel like the baby wants to feed constantly," she explains. "Babies who usually feed every 90 minutes to two hours may suddenly want to feed every hour or even every 30 minutes. This behaviour is often called cluster feeding."

Babies' sleep patterns also change during growth spurts. "Babies may wake up more frequently at night to feed more often when they are experiencing a growth spurt," McFadden notes.

Lastly, babies might become fussier and lose patience because they're trying to feed quickly and don't latch properly. "They want milk and they want it now," McFadden adds.

How to Manage Baby Growth Spurts

Growth spurts don't last forever but they can be challenging for parents. By understanding cluster feeding, optimizing sleep, offering comfort and taking care of yourself, you can get through them with ease. Here's why each matters.

Understand cluster feeding

During growth spurts, babies have a bigger appetite and require more calories, according to McFadden.

"To meet this increased demand, babies will feed more frequently, including cluster feeding in the evenings or after longer naps," she says. "These extra feedings help boost the mother's milk supply to match the baby's needs."

Cluster feeding often ends once the mother's body has adjusted to making enough milk for the baby's needs. However, McFadden advises that breastfeeding mothers drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and get as much sleep as they can so they can keep up with baby's increased appetite.

Optimize sleep for growth spurts

Newborn babies typically wake up every two to three hours to eat. This means parents won't get much sleep in the beginning. In the first few months, parents should focus on staying healthy and meeting their baby's needs.

McFadden suggests parents take naps when the baby sleeps, even if they don't usually nap. She continues, "Accepting help with chores and meals from friends and family can also let parents spend more time caring for the baby."

Comfort and support your baby

Babies sometimes go through periods of rapid growth. During these times, babies may become fussy and have trouble sleeping because they feel hungrier, according to McFadden. She suggests that for a few days during these growth spurts, families should make sure the baby gets enough to eat before doing other things.

McFadden also says it's important to comfort your baby and understand that they may feel frustrated. If you are worried that your baby isn't gaining weight properly or if they cry a lot and can't be calmed, she advises talking to your baby's doctor.

"If parents are worried about the baby’s weight gain or if the baby seems inconsolable, reach out to their pediatrician for medical review and any necessary assistance," advises McFadden. "In situations where there are significant concerns about breastfeeding, parents can seek support from a lactation consultant or another breastfeeding expert to help guide the baby back on track."

Practice self-care

Baby growth spurts are temporary, but they can be tough to handle. It's important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure you eat well, get enough sleep and accept help from loved ones when you need support.

Even though it may not feel like it, remember that you are doing a great job as a parent. "Parents should remind themselves that they are providing the best care possible and that this period will pass," says McFadden.

When to Seek Help

McFadden suggests that when healthy babies go through a growth spurt, it's okay to feed them more frequently until the phase passes. However, for babies with medical conditions or poor growth history, it's important to see a pediatrician right away if any concerning symptoms appear.

She explains, "If babies seem sick, have a fever or other symptoms, or cannot be consoled, call the pediatrician immediately. Also, if the baby has few wet diapers, few bowel movements, seems to be losing weight,or shows signs of dehydration, make sure the mother has enough milk supply and the baby is getting enough calories and fluids."

Experts: 

• Dr. Terri D. McFadden, MD, MPH, FAAP, medical director, Reach Out and Read Georgia
• Dr. Jean Moorjani, MD, a pediatrician with Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children