How Do I Know If My Child Is Growing and Developing Normally for Their Age?

Most parents quietly compare their child’s growth with others. It’s natural to wonder if your little one is keeping up. The truth is, every child grows differently, yet certain milestones help doctors assess whether development is on track. A 2024 UNICEF report estimated that nearly one in five Indian children under five experience growth or developmental variation — often unnoticed until later stages.

Growth is easier to see. It’s about numbers — height, weight, and head size. These are plotted on growth charts that doctors use to track progress. A small drop or jump in the curve doesn’t always mean a problem, but steady patterns matter. Nutrition, sleep, and genetics all play major roles. Regular visits to a paediatrician make sure nothing subtle gets overlooked.

Development, though, tells a deeper story. It’s seen in how a baby reacts, learns, and connects. Around six months, most babies roll over or giggle in response to familiar faces. By one year, they start to stand or take small steps. By three, they talk in sentences and understand simple instructions. These aren’t rigid rules, but helpful markers to guide both parents and doctors.

Sometimes, delays are temporary — a phase tied to nutrition or environment. But when progress stalls for long, it’s best not to wait. Early detection gives doctors more space to plan supportive therapies, whether it’s speech, nutrition, or physical strengthening.

At Adster Multi-Speciality Hospital, our paediatric specialists focus on both visible growth and hidden signs of development. Each check-up includes a review of weight, height, and motor skills, alongside observation of emotional and social behaviour. Parents are encouraged to share everyday observations — how the child eats, plays, or responds — because these details often tell the real story.

Childhood health is a continuous journey, not a checklist. Consistent monitoring builds confidence that your child is moving forward in every way.

If you’ve missed a growth review or feel uncertain about your child’s progress, it’s the right time to book a paediatric consultation at Adster Multi-Speciality Hospital, Manapakkam. Early reassurance or early care — both make a lasting difference.