As you watch your child grow from infancy to adolescence, you will witness many physical changes. You may find yourself wondering if he is on track with other children his age. Although there are some basic milestones for each age group, your child's doctor can determine if he is healthy and growing steadily.
Infants and Toddlers
Shortly after birth, it is normal for a baby to lose 5 percent to 10 percent of her birth weight. She will typically gain this weight back within the next two weeks and will go on to double her birth weight by the time she is 4 to 6 months old. In her first year, she will grow about 10 inches and Medline Plus states that once she is 1 to 2 years old, she will gain weight at the rate of 5 pounds a year. By the time she is 2 years old, she will grow 2.5 inches every year until she reaches adolescence. Her physical development also changes rapidly during this time, as she learns to roll over, sit up, crawl and stand on her own. Around her first birthday, she will take her first steps. During her toddler years, she will be able to walk, run and walk up stairs.
Preschool and Middle Childhood
As your child grows through his preschool and middle childhood years, he will continue to advance in his physical development skills. He will become more athletic and will be able to kick, throw and catch a ball as well as walk backward, skip and hop. He may learn to ride a tricycle and bicycle during this time in his life. His physical growth and appearance will change as he reaches puberty. Girls enter into puberty around 8 to 13 years of age, and boys enter around 10 to 15 years of age. Puberty lasts two to five years, during which time you can expect your child to have a growth spurt.
Adolescence and Older
Once your child reaches adolescence, she has typically reached nearly every physical development milestone. Her developmental changes now involve improving her balance, coordination and generally honing her skills. Girls reach physical maturity by age 15 years, while boys reach maturity at age 16 or 17 years.
Factors and Measurement
Genetics are a large factor in determining your child's physical growth. He is most likely to take after the physical appearance and size of his parents. Expect him to grow at his own steady pace on his own individual curve. His doctor will measure him on a growth chart to ensure that he is following the same growth pattern throughout his childhood. Each child grows at his own pace, so you do not need to be concerned if he seems shorter or taller than his peers. You can be sure his developmental skills are on track as long as they are progressing steadily.
Encouraging Growth and Development
To encourage proper growth, be sure your child gets a good night's sleep each night and has a nutritious and balanced diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, a toddler needs 1,000 to 1,400 calories each day. The amount of calories needed each day differs among boys and girls of different ages, so be sure to ask your child's doctor if she is eating enough. To encourage her growth and development, provide her with plenty of opportunities to explore and exercise.
