I have never been happy with the concept of predictably-timed growth spurts.

*Of course*  babies grow at differing rates, and some will grow faster than
others (like Jay's baby growing out of his 'jamas overnight!) at different
times - and of course it's helpful for mothers to be prepared for this.
But is there any good evidence that they happen in any *truly* predictable
way? I have heard so many times that 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks or whatever
are 'the' times, and I have also heard people reassure mothers that at 2
weeks, 5 weeks, 10 weeks or whateve 'it's okay' to respond to the baby's
apparent increased need to feed 'because he's probably coming up to a
growth spurt'.

Now, I bet most of us on this list think it's okay to respond to the baby's
apparent increased need to feed just because that's what he wants to do -
whatever the calendar says! Babies' wants are exactly the same as their
needs when they are young and dependent on you for love, security, warmth,
comfort..oh, yes, and top-quality nutrition for growth and development,
too.


Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK