Child growth periods and diet

Four periods of childhood growth

A child’s growth and development can be divided into four periods: infancy, preschool years, middle childhood years, and adolescence. Growth is fastest in infancy: soon after birth an infant typically loses about 10% to 12% of birth weight, then begins gaining again by about 2 weeks. By 4 to 6 months, an infant’s weight should be about double the birth weight, while growth slows somewhat during the second half of the first year. From ages 1 to 2, toddlers gain about 5 pounds (2.2 kg), and from ages 2 to 5 weight gain remains around 5 pounds (2.2 kg) per year. Between ages 2 and 10, children grow at a steady pace, followed by a final growth spurt at the start of puberty, typically between ages 9 and 15. Because growth rates change, nutrient needs change as well. Infants require more calories relative to their size than preschoolers or school-age children, and nutrient needs increase again as children approach adolescence. A healthy child generally follows an individual growth curve, but nutrient intake may differ by child. Providing a diet with a wide variety of foods appropriate for the child’s age and starting healthy eating habits in infancy can help reduce risks such as high blood pressure and obesity. Poor nutrition can also affect intellectual development—children may be tired, less able to learn, and more likely to get sick and miss school. Breakfast is especially important for learning and energy. Studies show a clear relationship between eating breakfast and improved learning, and government programs help ensure children in poor or underserved areas receive at least one healthy, balanced meal per day, often breakfast. If there are concerns about a child’s growth or development, it is recommended to talk with a health care provider.

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Infant weight loss and early weight gain

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