A growth chart is a graph used to track a child's growth and development over time. At each of your child's well-child visits, the doctor will measure:
These measurements are plotted on a graph according to your child's age and sex.
Growth charts show the consistency of your child's pattern of growth over time. It is important to remember that your child is likely to have growth spurts as well as periods of slow growth, even as a baby. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. For more information about growth charts, go to the website www.cdc.gov/growthcharts.
Other Works ConsultedCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (2010). Use of World Health Organization and CDC growth charts for children aged 0–59 months in the United States. MMWR, 59(RR-9): 1–15. Also available online: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr5909.pdf. [Erratum in MMWR 59(36): 1184. Also available online: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/PDF/wk/mm5936.pdf.]
Next Section:
Previous Section:
Last Revised: October 7, 2011
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics & Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
To learn more visit Healthwise.org
© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
