Growth during the first few years of life can be very rapid, however it is important to make sure your child is growing according to growth standards for your child’s age. Growth is most rapid during infancy, and although most babies catch up to growth standards, we aren’t always sure of this and therefore faltering growth (known as failure to thrive) in infancy can be an issue.

The main cause of faltering growth in infancy is poor intake, therefore it is essential to have Dr Koekemoer check that your baby’s growth and weight is to standard and that your little one is receiving adequate feeding and proper nutrition.

Dr Koekemoer will track your baby's growth during your routine visits, and make sure to mark it on a standard growth chart. This is done for parent and caregivers to visualise where their child stands in terms of the average, as well as to monitor changes across time. Keep in mind that even healthy babies go through brief periods when they stop gaining weight or even lose a little weight. Your paediatrician will only be concerned if your baby’s weight has not increased from one routine visit to another.