The first two formative years of a child's life lay the foundation for future growth. As infants rapidly develop physically, mentally, and emotionally, concerned parents closely track changes in height and weight on standardised charts. These growth milestones offer guidance whilst each baby progresses uniquely at their own pace. We spoke to Dr Vittal Kumar Kesireddy, Consultant and In-Charge - Department of Paediatrics, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, who explained what to expect in your little one’s growth journey between 12-24 months and shared simple parenting tips tips to support your baby as he grows.

During this time, it’s important to understand that growth fluctuations are normal. Temporary dips might seem worrying but are usually part of a child’s natural growth pattern. Growth charts help provide clarity and reassurance, while consultations with experts can offer personalised insights. “Remember, every child grows at their own pace, and the charts are there to guide, not dictate. Overall, the charts' role is reassurance that nature knows her course, not conformity, for every child blossoms in their own time,” explained Dr Kesireddy.

According to a study published in the Encyclopedia of Infant and Early Childhood Development, growth is a key indicator of a child’s well-being during the early years when their energy needs are at their highest. In the first year alone, a baby’s birth weight triples, and their length increases by 50%. By the age of four, their length typically doubles from birth.

Growth Parameters for Baby Boys (12-24 Months)

Below, we break down the growth parameters for baby boys between 12-24 months, based on insights from Dr  Kesireddy. These ranges are general, and it's essential to remember that some babies may fall slightly outside of these ranges, which is completely normal.

Months 12-15

• Height: Around 75.7 to 78.9 cm (29.8-31 inches)
• Weight: Around 9.6 to 10.9 kg (21.2-24 pounds)

At this stage, baby boys are becoming more mobile. They transition from crawling to walking, which leads to increased physical activity. While their growth might slow down slightly compared to the rapid pace of the first year, it’s still a time of significant development. During this period, providing a balanced diet rich in proteins, calcium, and iron is essential to support growing bones and muscles.

Months 16-18

• Height: Around 79.1 to 82.3 cm (31.1-32.4 inches)
• Weight: Around 10.5 to 11.5 kg (23.1-25.3 pounds)

During this phase, motor skills become more refined, and cognitive abilities develop at a rapid pace. While weight gain may start to stabilise, height growth continues steadily. It's crucial to continue offering a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products to meet their nutritional needs. Milk intake should be about 400-500 ml per day during this time, ensuring they get the calcium and vitamin D needed for strong bones.

Months 19-21

• Height: Around 83.0 to 85.4 cm (32.7-33.6 inches)
• Weight: Around 11.3 to 12.2 kg (24.9-26.9 pounds)

By now, baby boys are becoming more confident in their physical abilities. They may begin climbing, running, and exploring their surroundings. Encouraging outdoor play helps strengthen their muscles, build coordination, and burn off energy. Regular paediatric check-ups remain essential at this stage to monitor overall growth and development, ensuring that no red flags are missed.

Months 22-24

• Height: Around 86.1 to 88.5 cm (33.9-34.8 inches)
• Weight: Around 12.0 to 12.9 kg (26.4-28.4 pounds)

As your baby approaches his second birthday, you’ll likely see an increase in his energy levels. Toddlers are normally more active during this period and may engage in more complex physical activities. Growth during this time may slow down, but variations in weight and height are common. A diet rich in essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids is important for brain development, as this is a critical stage for cognitive growth.

Understanding Growth Patterns

“Growth is a highly individualised process, influenced by genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and overall health. It’s normal for growth rates to vary slightly. However, consistent deviations from standard growth charts may require medical attention. Paediatricians use percentiles to assess where a child’s measurements fall compared to other children of the same age and sex,” explained Dr Kesireddy.

What to Do If You Notice Growth Concerns

It’s normal for parents to worry when their baby’s growth deviates from the expected path. However, a single measurement outside the normal range is usually not a cause for concern. Tracking growth patterns over time is more important.

“It is recommended to consult a doctor if your baby’s weight or height consistently falls below the 3rd percentile or above the 97th percentile. Additionally, if your baby shows signs of developmental delays, such as not walking or talking when expected, or struggles with motor skills, seeking professional advice is essential. Early intervention can address any issues and support your child’s well-being,” advised Dr Kesireddy.

Bottomline

Dr Kesireddy concluded, “Tracking your baby’s height and weight during the 12-24 month period is an essential aspect of ensuring their overall health and well-being. Remember that growth charts are guides, not strict rules. Each child is unique, and small deviations from these benchmarks are often no cause for alarm. By fostering a nurturing environment, ensuring proper nutrition, and staying vigilant about their health, parents can support their children’s optimal growth.”

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/weight-and-height-growth-chart-for-baby-boy-12-to-24-month