Growth Faltering: What It Means and How Nutrition Can Help

Every parent wonders at some point: Is my child growing the way they should? 

Maybe their pants still fit from last year, or they seem much smaller than their classmates. These concerns are valid—and sometimes, they can be a sign of something called growth faltering.

Growth faltering happens when a child isn’t gaining weight or height at the expected rate. While it can be alarming, the good news is that nutrition plays a powerful role in supporting your child’s healthy development.

In this post, we’ll explain what growth faltering really means, how to spot the signs, and how pediatric nutrition counseling and targeted dietary changes can help your child thrive.

What Is Growth Faltering?

Growth faltering refers to a slower-than-expected rate of growth in babies or children. This might show up as:

• Not gaining weight or height according to growth chart percentiles

• Dropping two or more percentile lines on a growth curve

• Delays in developmental milestones alongside poor growth

  
  

Faltering growth can result from many things, including:

• Not eating enough (due to picky eating, feeding issues, illness, or low appetite)

• Poor absorption of nutrients (e.g. celiac disease, food allergies)

• High energy needs (such as with chronic conditions)

  
  

Whatever the reason, catching it early is key—and nutrition is one of the most effective tools to help your child get back on track.

How to Support Healthy Growth Through Nutrition

Here are some steps parents can take if they suspect faltering growth in their child:

1. Track Growth Patterns

   • Regular pediatric check-ups are essential. Ask to see your child’s growth chart and discuss any significant changes.

     
     

2. Boost Calories Strategically

   • Offer energy-dense foods like avocado, full-fat yogurt, cheese, and nut butters.

   • Add healthy fats to meals—think olive oil drizzled on veggies or butter stirred into oatmeal.

     
     

3. Offer Frequent, Nutritious Meals & Snacks

   • Try 3 meals and 2–3 snacks a day. Small stomachs need regular fuel!

   • Include protein, fat, and carbs in each offering to support balanced growth.

     
     

4. Avoid Pressuring at Mealtimes

   • Create a positive, low-stress environment. Pressuring kids to eat can backfire.

   • Use a “Division of Responsibility” approach: you decide what and when food is offered, your child decides how much.

     
     

5. Work with a Pediatric Dietitian

   • A Registered Dietitian can identify nutritional gaps, recommend a failure to thrive diet, and tailor strategies for your child’s needs.

     
     

Common Questions About Faltering Growth

My child is a picky eater—is that enough to cause growth faltering?

Yes, especially if picky eating leads to poor intake of calories or key nutrients. A dietitian can help expand food variety in a gentle, non-stressful way.

Should I use supplements or meal replacement drinks?

Sometimes! But it’s best to speak with a pediatric dietitian first to ensure you’re choosing the right product and using it appropriately.

How soon will I see improvement?

Growth changes take time. With the right support, most children start to show improvement within a few months.

Let’s Get Your Child Growing Strong

Growth faltering can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone—and early action makes a big difference. With targeted nutrition support and the right guidance, your child can get back on a healthy growth path.

💬 Worried about your child’s growth? Book a consultation with Sprout & Shine Nutrition today. Together, we’ll create a plan that supports your child’s unique needs—and helps your whole family feel more confident at mealtimes.