Topic Overview
Your child's physical growth during the second year,
although considerable, is less rapid than during the first year. In the second
year, toddlers gain an average of
3 lb (1.4 kg) to
5 lb (2.3 kg) and grow an
average of 3 in. (7.6 cm) to
5 in. (12.7 cm). Normal and
expected physical growth requires adequate nutrients and a nurturing
environment.
As toddlers start to walk and become more active,
they develop leaner and more muscular arms and legs and lose fat around the
face and tummy. They also lose some of their baby look.
In the
second year, the
molars usually begin to come in. These large and flat
teeth may cause your toddler pain before and while they are erupting through
the gum tissue. This may cause irritability, disrupt sleep patterns, and change
your toddler's behavior. For more information about tooth eruption, see the
topic Teething.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSusan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical ReviewerLouis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics