Is your kid not growing as compared to their peers: Do's and Don’ts

It's Important to measure and monitor regularly to know if your child is growing as per his/her age. Here’s what can be considered normal growth.

What is normal growth?

Overall growth and development of kid includes specially growing in height and weight as per age. First five year is window of growth opportunity as 60% of bone growth happens during this period. The new standards verify that differences in kids' growth until the age of five years are more impacted by nutrition, feeding practices, environmental and healthcare reasons rather than genetics or ethnicity.

Symptoms of delayed growth

If your kid is shorter than other kids of their age, they may have growth issues. When Height and age of the child plotted on growth chart if it is less than 3rd centile or the child is not growing right as per age.  

The most important do’s of raising healthy children

• Give your child love and attention

One of the vital things you can do as a parent is to show how much you love them. Spend time, listen to them, and cuddle them. This will help them feel loved and secure while promoting a strong parent-child bond. 

• Provide a healthy diet

A healthy diet is crucial for developing and making a healthy kid. Make sure to give them fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit excess sweetened snacks or drinks.  Also remember to offer them adequate water required for the day. 

• Encourage physical activity

Physical activity is essential for a child's health.This can include playing in park, going for a walk, outdoor games and family activities that everyone can enjoy. Children are often interested in exploring different things, and it's essential to encourage their interests and hobbies. If your child is interested in an activity, try to find ways to help them pursue it. 

• Do limit their screen time

Too much screen time can harm children, so limiting this is essential. Try to set limits and ensure more of outdoor physical activities to keep them occupied. 

• Eat healthy meals together

Eating healthy meals is vital for everyone, but it's essential for growing children. Try to eat together daily as a family, and include fruits, veggies, and whole grains in your child's food to give them a balanced diet. 

The most-critical don'ts of raising a healthy child

• No junk food

Junk food is a significant contributor to obesity and other health problems. It's important to encourage your child to eat healthy foods and avoid junk food. 

• No unhealthy sleep cycles

Establishing a healthy sleep routine from an early age goes a long way in the proper growth of the children. Parents can build an effective, healthy sleep pattern by creating exclusive bedtime activities, having pillow talks with kids and eliminating screen usage before bed. Parents will need to be patient and committed to making this routine a habit by following it consistently along with their child.  

• No excess consumption of sugar

Too much sugar can cause obesity, dental cavities, and other health problems. Limiting your child's sugar intake and encouraging them to eat healthy foods is essential. 

• No meal skipping

Make sure your kids have three meals and 2 healthy snacks per day. Skipping meals specially breakfast can effect child's growth and development. 

Raising a healthy child is no easy task, but it can be done with effort and knowledge. Just remember to stay calm, be patient, and always put your child's needs first, and you'll be well on your way to success. And remember, the most vital thing you can do as a parent is to love and care for your children.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above Blog are the independent views of the blogger / author based on his/her experience on child growth and development. It is not intended to represent Abbott’s viewpoint on the matter or to promote Abbott’s products. Nothing in this content should be construed as Abbott giving medical advice or making a recommendation, endorsement of any kind, nor does it seek to replace medical opinion or independent professional/ clinical judgement.