Growth and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old

During the third year of life, toddlers tend to gain about 4 pounds (1,800 grams) in weight and grow about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters) in height.

They're extremely active and mobile, and learning in very physical ways. These toddlers are sleeping less than they did in the year before, running around and exploring their world, and picking up new skills, like riding a tricycle.

Your toddler's appetite may fluctuate greatly at this stage. This is very common. If your child is active, happy, and engaged, and you're providing a variety of nutritious foods, he or she is probably getting the nutrients needed and there's likely no cause for concern.

Although kids come in all shapes and sizes, a healthy child should continue to grow at a regular pace. The doctor will measure and weigh your child at routine checkups and plot the results on a Barbara P. Homeier, MD
Date reviewed: October 2005
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