Baby Growth Guide
Content reviewed against published WHO, CDC, AAP guidelines
Last reviewed:
Key takeaways
- Healthy babies come in all shapes and sizes — percentiles are about tracking trends, not hitting a number
- A single measurement means less than the overall growth pattern over time
- Crossing two or more percentile lines (up or down) warrants discussion with your pediatrician
- Breastfed and formula-fed babies have different growth patterns — both are normal
Growth Topics
How to read and interpret baby growth charts
PercentilesWhat percentiles mean (and don't mean)
WeightWeight gain guide by age, from birth to 24 months
HeightLength/height tracking and normal growth rates
Head CircumferenceHead circumference, brain growth, and what to watch for
Failure to ThriveSigns, causes, and treatment of growth faltering
Premature GrowthCatch-up growth, adjusted age, and preemie nutrition
Newborn Weight LossNormal weight loss after birth and regain timeline
WHO vs CDC ChartsWhich growth chart to use and why they differ
Breastfed vs FormulaHow feeding method affects growth patterns
Slow Weight GainCauses of slow gain and strategies to help
Crossing PercentilesWhen crossing percentile lines is concerning
Nutrition for GrowthCalorie needs, vitamins, and minerals for healthy growth
Growth Tools
Our commitment to accuracy
Every page is reviewed against published guidelines from authoritative medical organizations including the CDC, WHO, AAP, ACOG, ASHA, and NIH.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources