As a mom, you will experience those moments when your baby seems to be fussy, hungry all the time, or extra clingy. These are signs of a growth spurt! A completely natural phase of your child’s development. Growth spurts happen at various times throughout childhood, and while they can feel intense, they are a sign that your little one is growing and changing. In this article, we’ll break down what to expect during these spurts and offer tips on how to support your baby (and yourself) through them.

When do growth spurts happen?

Every baby is unique, however, common growth spurts happen around these ages:

• 6 weeks old

Similar to the growth spurt at 2-3 weeks old, during this period, your baby may feed more often and seem fussier due to the rapid development happening in their body, which requires extra energy.

• 3 months old

At three months, babies experience a combination of physical and cognitive development. You may notice them becoming more alert and interactive as their motor skills improve and they begin to understand more of the world around them.

• 6 months old

This is a major growth spurt. Your baby may start to roll over, sit up, and reach for objects because their body develops and strengthens to allow these new physical skills.

• 9 months old

In this growth spurt, babies begin to crawl as their muscles strengthen, which opens up a new world of exploration. They may also start developing more coordinated movements and greater curiosity about their surroundings.

It’s very normal for growth spurts to happen at different times for each baby. Many factors, including genetics, influence their timing and duration. These spurts are a normal part of a child’s development, and while they might be challenging, they’re also a sign of healthy growth.

How can I identify a growth spurt?

• Your baby may want to nurse or bottle-feed more frequently and for longer periods, as their body needs extra nourishment to support rapid growth.
• Growth spurts can make babies cranky and clingy, likely due to the energy demands and changes in their bodies.
• Babies may sleep more or less than usual, as sleep patterns often shift to accommodate growth.
• As they continue to develop, babies become more curious and active, driven by an increasing interest in exploring the world around them.

How can I support my baby during a growth spurt?

• Frequent feedings: Your baby’s hunger cues can sometimes be difficult to interpret, but during growth spurts, they may need to nurse or bottle-feed more often. This is completely normal and part of their body’s need for extra energy during rapid growth. 
• Ask for help: It’s easy to feel like you need to do everything yourself, but remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s someone taking over household chores, or offering support with other children or baby care, asking for help is not a sign of weakness. You need space to recharge, and that’s essential for your well-being!
• Patience and understanding: During growth spurts, both you and your baby might feel overwhelmed. Be patient with your baby and understand that their increased fussiness is temporary. However, remember to extend that patience to yourself, too! Parenting is not always easy, and you are doing an amazing job. Offering yourself the same understanding you give to your baby will help reduce stress and allow you to be more present.
• Skin-to-skin contact: Skin-to-skin is a powerful way to bond with your baby and provide comfort. It can help regulate their body temperature, calm them down, and promote feelings of security. If possible, take a few moments throughout the day to have this quiet bonding time. It can be part of your daily routine, whether you’re nursing, holding, or simply relaxing with your baby close to you. You can try this activity to practice skin-to-skin contact! 
• Establish a routine: While growth spurts can disrupt your baby’s usual patterns, maintaining a flexible routine can help bring comfort and predictability. Routines can help your baby feel more secure, and knowing when to expect comfort can ease some of the fussiness that comes with this phase. Stay adaptable, as some adjustments might be needed during this time of growth, but keep comforting practices like bedtime rituals consistent.
• Consult your pediatrician: If you’re concerned about your baby’s growth or development during a growth spurt, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. They can help you navigate your concerns, whether it’s about feeding, sleep, or your baby’s behavior during these changes!

Remember to trust your instincts as a mother, and remember that no question is too small when it comes to your child’s health and well-being!