What Every Parent Needs to Know About Toddler Growth Spurts

Written by: Christian Kent Aguillon

April 1, 2024

Time to read 4 min

Watching your toddler grow is an exciting part of being a parent. Unlike the fast growth in their baby months, toddlers grow in smaller steps. During the toddler years, parents often look forward to observing notable growth spurts, a common milestone in earlier childhood phases.

It's important to understand, however, that toddlers generally do not undergo significant growth spurts in the same way they did as infants. Instead, this period is characterized by a series of minor yet remarkable developmental progressions.

In this blog post, we aim to inform you about the type of developmental progress to expect during the toddler years and to offer guidance on recognizing the signs of these occasional growth spurts.

What Are Toddler Growth Spurts?

Toddler growth spurts are times when your child grows a bit more than usual. They won't grow as fast as they did when they were babies, but they're still getting taller and heavier. Growth spurts also include learning new things and becoming better at talking and moving around.

A growth spurt signifies a rapid and intense phase of growth occurring over a short span. This phenomenon can lead parents to marvel at their infant's or toddler's quick changes, often perceived as happening "overnight."

The most apparent indicators of growth are an infant's length (height) and weight. Typically, an infant will increase about 10 inches (25 centimeters) in length and see their birth weight triple by the end of their first year. The head circumference also expands significantly, especially in the first four months. Although growth generally follows a consistent trajectory, infants might go through growth spurts, during which their development noticeably accelerates.

Signs of Growth in Toddlers

Even though toddlers don’t grow as quickly as they did before, you can watch for these signs to know they are having a growth spurt:

They’re Hungrier: If your toddler seems hungrier and eats more, they might be about to grow.
Sleep Changes: They might sleep more or have some changes in how well they sleep.
Learning New Things: When toddlers suddenly get better at words or playing, it can mean they’re growing.

How to Identify a Growth Spurt

Recent research breaks down child growth into three simple stages:

First Stage: After birth up to age three, your little one grows quickly, then it starts to slow down.
Second Stage: Steady growth in height during the childhood years.
Third Stage: A quick growth spurt during adolescence until they reach their full height.

For your toddler, this means they’re still growing, but not as rapidly as when they were a baby. Think of their growth as an upside-down triangle fast at the start, then gradually slowing down.

Infancy

In the first year, babies grow rapidly—about 10 inches in length and their weight triples. By 4 to 6 months, they've already doubled their birth weight. Imagine doubling their weight in just a few months.

Toddler

Once your baby hits their first birthday, things slow down. Toddlers typically gain about five pounds each year until they're five. Their height keeps up as they grow taller, too. It’s as if their body is taking a breath, catching up after that first-year growth sprint.

During this time, toddlers are on the move and burning energy, which means they start to lose that baby roundness. Yet, the first three years are still a busy time for growth, so keep an eye on how they develop.

Helping Your Toddler Grow

Toddlers are busy learning to walk, talk, and explore. They start to look less like babies and more like little kids. It’s important to watch their growth and make sure they are eating well and staying active.

Speaking of nutrition, consider supporting your toddler’s growth with TruHeight Toddler Bone Growth Gummy. These gummies are designed to nourish growing bodies with essential vitamins and minerals, helping them build strong bones and reach their growth potential.

Growth Patterns in Toddlers

As your toddler ages from 1 to 3, they'll be growing and developing in leaps and bounds. While they're mastering walking and talking, they'll also typically grow about three to four inches and add around three to four pounds to their weight each year. It might not always be obvious when they're going through a growth spurt, but rest assured, their growth is on a steady upward trajectory.

Here's a closer look at what you might expect during the typical growth spurts for toddlers:

From 1 to 2 Years

Weight increase: Approximately 5 pounds
Height increase: Around 4 to 5 inches

From 2 to 3 Years

Weight increase: About 4 pounds
Height increase: Between 2 to 3 inches

From 3 to 4 Years

Weight increase: Roughly 4 to 6 pounds
Height increase: About 2 to 3 inches

When You’re Worried About Growth

It’s normal to wonder if your toddler is growing the right way. Most of the time, they grow just like their parents did. If your child seems smaller than others but is healthy and growing at their own pace, they’re probably fine. If you’re still worried, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor.

Unlocking Your Growth Potential: The Ultimate Height Progress Tracking Guide

CONCLUSION

Watching your toddler grow and change is a big part of being a parent. Knowing about growth spurts helps you support and enjoy each new step they take. And with the right support, like providing them with nutritious options such as TruHeight Toddler Bone Growth Gummy, you’re helping ensure they have everything they need to grow up healthy and strong.

FAQ's

How much will my toddler grow in a year?

Most toddlers grow about three to five pounds and three to four inches taller each year.

What if my toddler isn't growing as expected?

Kids grow in their own way. If you’re worried, a doctor can help you know if everything is okay.

Does what my toddler eats affect their growth?

Yes, good food helps your toddler grow healthy and strong. Adding a supplement like TruHeight Toddler Bone Growth Gummy can also support their bone health and overall development.

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