Growth of infants vary from baby to baby, and not all children are born with the same height. Though the growth rate of infants is not constant, it remains in a definite range. Though there are exceptions, the normal growth rate of infants in their first year follow the pattern given below.
An infant may grow 0.5 to 1 inch per month in the first six months. During this time, they normally achieve 5 to 7 ounces (approximately 140 to 200 grams) per week. At the end of month 5, an infant is expected to double his or her birth weight.
In the next six months, the growth rate of babies decreases. In the course of this time, babies grow at a rate of 3/8 inch per month. Weight of a baby increases at a rate of 3 to 5 ounces (approximately 85 to 140 grams) from age 6 to 12. After 12 months, your baby is very likely to triple his or her birth weight.
A little variation in this pattern is totally normal. It is not unusual at all for some babies to stop gaining weight or height. But if you think something is not right, contact your child’s doctor. The doctor will keep a record of your baby’s growth rate at regular intervals. He will also measure and record the weight of the baby. For these tasks, standard growth charts are used for convenient display of progress.
Don’t forget that the overall progress of your baby is more important than just growing taller. Another crucial thing you should remember that your baby may be absolutely healthy but still not grow according to the above mentioned pattern. If there’s any problem, your baby’s doctor will identify that.