If you’re a parent and your baby suddenly seems fussier, hungrier, or more restless than usual, you might be wondering what’s going on. The truth is, babies go through various growth spurts during their early months and even beyond. These are natural and important stages of development that can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming for both baby and parents.

Understanding growth spurts and recognizing the signs can help you feel more prepared and patient as your baby navigates these rapid phases of change. In this guide, we’ll walk through when to expect growth spurts, how to recognize them, and what you can do to support your baby through them.

What are growth spurts?

Growth spurts are short bursts of rapid growth in a baby’s body and brain. During these phases, babies may grow in length, gain weight, and even show advancements in motor skills and cognitive abilities. These spurts typically happen overnight—one day, your baby might fit into their onesie perfectly, and the next, they’re suddenly stretching it out!

Research suggests that babies don’t grow at a steady pace but rather in short, intense periods. A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that growth spurts often occur in a stop-and-start pattern rather than at a constant rate. The study revealed that these spurts can happen in as little as 24 hours, with babies growing significantly during these short windows.

While it might feel like your baby is out of sorts during a growth spurt—feeding more, waking up frequently, or being unusually fussy—this is all part of the process. Their little body is working hard, and soon enough, they’ll settle into a new rhythm.

When do babies have growth spurts?

If it feels like your baby is growing overnight, it’s because they probably are! While every baby develops at their own pace, there are some common ages when growth spurts tend to happen. These spurts often follow a predictable pattern, typically occurring around:

• 1 to 3 weeks
• 6 weeks
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months

During these times, your baby may suddenly seem hungrier, fussier, or need more sleep (or sometimes less). Growth spurts are also linked to developmental leaps—so while your baby’s body is growing, their brain is also making new connections.

Knowing when these growth spurts typically occur can help you prepare for changes in your baby’s behavior. If your little one suddenly seems different, it’s likely just a phase—and one that will pass before you know it!

When do babies have growth spurts?

If it feels like your baby is growing overnight, it’s because they probably are! While every baby develops at their own pace, there are some common ages when growth spurts tend to happen. These spurts often follow a predictable pattern, typically occurring around:

• 1 to 3 weeks
• 6 weeks
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months

During these times, your baby may suddenly seem hungrier, fussier, or need more sleep (or sometimes less). Growth spurts are also linked to developmental leaps—so while your baby’s body is growing, their brain is also making new connections.

Knowing when these growth spurts typically occur can help you prepare for changes in your baby’s behavior. If your little one suddenly seems different, it’s likely just a phase—and one that will pass before you know it!

Common growth spurts during the first year

The first year of your baby’s life is full of rapid changes, and two of the most noticeable growth spurts happen around 6 weeks and 3 months. These spurts can bring sudden changes in feeding, sleep, and behavior, which can feel overwhelming—but they’re a sign of healthy development!

6-week growth spurt

Around six weeks, many parents notice that their baby suddenly wants to eat all the time. If your little one is nursing or bottle-feeding more frequently, it’s because their body is demanding extra fuel to support this rapid growth. You might also notice increased fussiness or shorter naps. This spurt usually lasts a few days, after which your baby may seem calmer and more settled.

3-month growth spurt

By three months, babies experience another major growth spurt. This one often comes with:

• Increased hunger (frequent nursing or bottle-feeding)
• Changes in sleep patterns (more or less sleep than usual)
• Heightened alertness (baby may seem more curious and engaged)

At this stage, your baby is not only growing physically but also making huge cognitive leaps. Their vision is improving, they’re more aware of their surroundings, and they may even start making their first real giggles.

While these spurts can disrupt routines, they don’t last long. Offering extra feeds, cuddles, and patience can help both you and your baby get through them smoothly.

Signs of a growth spurt

How do you know if your baby is going through a growth spurt? While every baby is different, there are some common signs that signal a period of rapid development:

Increased hunger

Your baby may suddenly want to eat more often than usual. Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, they might cluster-feed or seem unsatisfied even after a full feeding.

Disrupted sleep patterns

Some babies sleep more during a growth spurt, while others wake up frequently. Their body is working hard to grow, which can make their usual sleep routine unpredictable for a few days.

Fussiness and clinginess

Your usually calm baby might be extra fussy and want to be held more often. This is because growth spurts can feel intense, and babies seek comfort and reassurance during these rapid changes.

Noticeable physical growth

You might find that your baby’s onesies suddenly seem snug, or their weight feels different when you hold them. These visible changes often confirm that a growth spurt has just happened.

New developmental skills

Growth spurts aren’t just about size—they often come with new abilities. Your baby may start making new sounds, smiling more, or even attempting their first roll.

These phases can feel exhausting, but they’re temporary. Once the growth spurt passes, your baby will likely return to their usual routine—just a little bigger and stronger than before!

How long do growth spurts last?

Growth spurts don’t last forever, even though they might feel endless in the moment! Most growth spurts are short-lived, typically lasting 2 to 3 days, though some can stretch up to a week. The intensity and duration vary from baby to baby—some may breeze through a spurt with just a day or two of extra feedings, while others might experience a full week of changes in appetite, sleep, and mood.

Here’s a general breakdown of how long different types of growth spurts may last:

• Newborn to 3-month spurts: Typically 2 to 3 days, as their body adjusts to rapid early growth.
• 3 to 6-month spurts: Can last up to a week, especially around the 3-month mark when babies undergo major developmental leaps.
• 6 to 12-month spurts: Usually last around 3 to 5 days, though they may come with noticeable changes in mobility and awareness.

If your baby seems extra hungry, fussy, or restless for longer than a week, it could be due to other factors like teething, illness, or sleep regressions rather than a typical growth spurt. Offering extra feeds, cuddles, and patience can help your little one navigate this period with ease.

How to support your baby during a growth spurt

Growth spurts can be challenging, but there are simple ways to help your baby (and yourself!) get through them with ease.

Feed on demand

Your baby’s appetite will likely increase during a growth spurt, so follow their hunger cues. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula-feeding, allowing them to eat as much as they need will support their rapid development.

Prioritize sleep (for both of you!)

Babies may sleep more—or struggle to sleep—during a growth spurt. Try to follow their lead and offer naps when needed. If sleep is disrupted, know that it’s temporary and will likely settle once the spurt is over.

Offer extra comfort

Growth spurts can make babies fussier and more clingy. Responding with extra cuddles, babywearing, or skin-to-skin contact can help reassure them as they navigate these changes.

Take care of yourself too

It’s easy to focus all your energy on your baby, but don’t forget about yourself. Try to rest when possible, stay hydrated (especially if breastfeeding), and ask for help if you need it.

Growth spurts may feel overwhelming, but they’re a sign that your baby is growing exactly as they should. With patience, love, and a little flexibility, you’ll both get through this phase in no time!

When to reach out to your pediatrician

While growth spurts are a normal part of development, there are times when checking in with your pediatrician might be a good idea. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s always okay to seek reassurance.

Signs to watch for:

• Lack of weight gain or noticeable weight loss – If your baby isn’t gaining weight over time, it could be a sign of feeding difficulties.
• Persistent fussiness beyond a week – Growth spurts typically last a few days. If your baby remains unusually irritable, there may be another underlying cause, like teething or illness.
• Refusing to eat – While some babies may have temporary appetite changes, ongoing refusal to feed should be checked.
• Drastic changes in diaper output – Fewer wet or dirty diapers than usual may indicate dehydration or other concerns.

Growth spurts can sometimes overlap with other developmental changes, making it tricky to tell what’s normal and what isn’t. If you’re ever unsure, your pediatrician can help you understand whether it’s just a phase or if further evaluation is needed.

Conclusion

Growth spurts may bring extra feeds, fussiness, and sleep disruptions, but they’re a normal and temporary part of development. By responding to your baby’s needs with patience and comfort, you can help them through this phase smoothly.

If you’re ever unsure about your baby’s growth, your pediatrician can provide reassurance. In the meantime, soak in those snuggles—this phase will pass before you know it!