When Do Kids Have Growth Spurts? Easy Guide

A growth spurt is a short time when a child grows faster than usual—most often in height and weight. These bursts happen from infancy through the teen years, and every child’s timing is a little different. Doctors track growth using growth charts, which compare a child’s measurements with other kids the same age.

When Do Growth Spurts Happen?

Babies (0–12 months)

Many babies have quick spurts in the first year—commonly around 2–3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months. By the first birthday, most babies have grown about 10 inches and tripled their birth weight.

These baby spurts usually last a couple of days to about 3 days. Signs include extra hunger, fussiness, or changes in sleep.

Toddlers & Preschoolers (1–5 years)

After age 1, growth slows down but becomes steadier. Kids usually grow a few inches each year and gain weight at a steady pace.

School-Age Children (6–12 years)

Growth is usually steady, about 2–2.5 inches per year, with 4–7 pounds of weight gain each year—until puberty begins.

Teens (Puberty)

The biggest spurts arrive with puberty:

• Girls: Often start earlier, around 10–12 years, sometimes as young as 8 or as late as 14. Peak height growth is around 11–12 years.
• Boys: Usually peak later, around 13–15 years, about two years after girls.

During this stage, kids can grow 3–6 inches in a single year.

Common Signs of a Growth Spurt

• Clothes and shoes suddenly fit smaller
• Bigger appetite for a few days or weeks
• Needing more sleep or daytime naps
• Temporary clumsiness as limbs lengthen
• Puberty changes (breast development, deeper voice, body hair)

Do Growth Spurts Hurt?

Growth spurts themselves don’t hurt. Some kids may have mild “growing pains,” usually dull aches in the legs at night. These are not caused by bones stretching. If pain is severe, happens during the day, or comes with swelling or limping, check with a doctor.

How Long Do Growth Spurts Last?

• Babies: Often just 2–3 days
• Teens: Spurts come in waves over months to a couple of years

How Doctors Track Growth

At checkups, doctors measure height and weight and mark them on a growth chart. The most important thing is not the exact number, but whether your child keeps following a steady pattern over time.

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How to Support a Child During a Growth Spurt

• Balanced meals and snacks. Offer protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods.
• Protect sleep. Most growth hormone is released during deep sleep. Kids may need 9–11 hours.
• Stay active. Exercise and play help coordination as bodies change.
• Keep up with checkups. Regular visits help track growth and spot concerns early.

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When to Call the Doctor

Contact your child’s doctor if:

• A girl shows no signs of puberty by age 13, or a boy by age 14
• Pain is severe, constant, or paired with swelling
• Your child drops off their usual growth curve
• They are extremely tired, not eating, or seem unwell

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