With appetite fluctuations, heightened emotions and voluntary naps, you might think your child has turned alien. But there might be a simpler explanation: growth spurts. A common occurrence in younger children, growth spurts “occur when your child reaches new physical growth milestones (height and weight) within a short period of time,” according to Cleveland Clinic. Generally, growth spurts aren’t a cause for concern. But knowing their signs and the ways to help remedy them can make your child’s growing pains just a bit smoother.
What are the signs of growth spurts?
According to Cleveland Clinic, signs of growth spurts may include a “decrease or increase in appetite,” “fussiness or emotional outbursts” and “adult (permanent) teeth replacing baby teeth.” Abbot Nutrition News also mentions that parents notice the following in their children: clothes suddenly not fitting as they used to, sleeping longer than usual, clumsy behavior (sudden growth may affect the child’s center of gravity) and an increase in weight.
Growth spurts may last a few days up to a week, according to Mayo Clinic. When they first experience growth spurts or growing pains, children may feel a sense of worry or self-consciousness. Knowing the signs can help you put their mind at ease and reassure them in their self-image
Where do growing pains usually occur?
According to Mayo Clinic, growing pains generally manifests as an aching sensation in “legs — often in the front of the thighs, the calves or behind the knees” or as abdominal pain or headaches. These pains are not lasting and will come and go throughout the days as your child grows. They also generally occur in the evening or at night. Some growing pains may cause your child to wake up in the night. However, this is generally considered normal, according to Mayo Clinic.
How to help your child through growing pains
Growing pains can be eased through massages, stretching or heating pads. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help, according to Nemours Children’s Health. Mayo Clinic also suggests supporting your child by “providing additional meals to satisfy their appetite, encouraging regular bedtimes and positive sleeping habits and being patient with their changing emotions.” When dealing with growth spurts, one of the best things you can do is be understanding of your child’s symptoms. Respond with patience and emotional support.
When to speak to your child’s pediatrician
While Mayo Clinic notes that growing pains are to be expected, if your child experiences pain that is “persistent, still present in the morning, severe enough to interfere with your child’s usual activities, located in the joints, associated with an injury or accompanied by other signs or symptoms, such as swelling, redness, tenderness, fever, limping, rash, loss of appetite, weakness or fatigue,” speak with a health care provider. These are not normal symptoms of growing pains and may be indicative of a more serious issue.
Though growing pains are inevitable, understanding how to help alleviate them can make your child’s growth spurt easier. This can also help them view it as a normal part of their development. Growth spurts can also be celebrated by using them as an opportunity to track their progress. Measuring and marking their height on a door frame, poster, measuring tape or other surface helps take their mind off the growing pains and on to the growing gains!
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