Growth spurts refer to the physical growth of children, including height, weight, and head circumference. The stages of a child's physical growth and development are divided into three parts: the first stage occurs from birth until 3 years old, the second stage from 3 to 9 years old, and the last stage starts at age 10 when the child enters puberty. According to Healthline, here are the stages of growth spurts in children and the most important factors affecting their growth.
Stages of Growth Spurts in Children
In the first stage, a child’s body usually grows very quickly, known as a growth spurt, which mainly happens in the first year. During this phase, the child grows rapidly and requires good nutrition.
In the first six months, the child’s diet depends entirely on breast milk. The mother's body naturally adapts to produce milk according to the child’s needs. During the first three months, the average baby can gain between 800 to 1000 grams per month.
In the second stage, the child's growth rate slows down and continues at a steadier pace until around age ten, which marks the beginning of the third stage.
In this third stage, the child experiences another growth spurt that peaks during puberty. On average, girls reach their growth peak at about 11.5 years and then slow down, stopping around age 16. Boys reach their peak growth around 13.5 years and stop around age 18.
All these stages are important to ensure optimal physical development. However, the growth spurt phase is especially critical, so parents should pay close attention to their child’s growth progress and nutritional intake during these times.
Factors Affecting Child Growth
Several key factors primarily influence a child’s growth:
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Genetics: The hereditary traits from both parents play a major role.
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Health: Children’s health status can affect growth. Young children are more vulnerable to infections as their immune systems are still developing, which may lead to illnesses such as diarrhea, coughs, colds, and other infections. These illnesses can cause weight loss either directly or due to difficulties taking medication.
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Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential to support growth. Children need carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in proper balance.
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Physical Activity: Regular physical activity such as climbing, running, swimming, and cycling helps strengthen muscles and improve bone flexibility, especially when practiced in morning sunlight. This is important because calcium absorption requires active vitamin D, which the body synthesizes through sun exposure.
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Adequate Sleep: Sleep is very important for growth, especially nighttime sleep, since the growth hormone responsible for cell growth and renewal is released during deep sleep at night. Lack of sleep can negatively affect this process.
Nutrition and Dietary Recommendations
Children should receive a varied diet to cover their needs for carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. For example, sources of carbohydrates can include pasta, potatoes, and rice. Proteins can come from animal sources like meat or plant sources like soy. Vegetables, fruits, and milk should also be regularly included.
Supplements: If children already follow a balanced diet, supplements are generally unnecessary and may cause vitamin overdose. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) accumulate in body tissues and excessive amounts can cause side effects such as liver or kidney problems, digestive issues, nausea, and other symptoms.
Monitoring Growth
Parents should regularly monitor their child’s growth using growth charts provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). This should ideally continue from birth until at least five years old. If your child’s growth is not consistent with their age, consult a pediatrician.
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