A Baby’s weight is an important indicator of his/her growth and health. Thus, keeping track of the baby’s weight is important to determine how well his/her growth and development are progressing.
Some points should be kept in mind to measure baby weight correctly.
Use the baby weighing scale
Baby must always be weighed on a good baby weighing scale. Bathroom scales are not suitable for babies. The baby scale should be electronic for better accuracy and must be capable of holding up to 18 kg weight. Ensure that the baby scale can detect a difference of as much as 10 grams. The tray on which the baby is laid must be free of rough surfaces and sharp points.
Weigh the baby naked
The baby must always be weighed naked. This is because clothes add to the weight and you do not get an accurate reading. Diaper must also be removed before placing the baby on the tray of the baby scale.
Tracking weight gain
The bodyweight of a baby fluctuates frequently, hence the weight should be checked after every two weeks. Weight gain should be steady. When the baby gets enough breast milk and proper nutrition, the weight will become double the birth weight by the age of 5 months and will triple by the time baby reaches one year. Short-term weight loss is not a concern but if the baby fails to gain enough weight for a long period of time, then a visit to the pediatrician is in order.
Weight gain in the second and third year
In the second year, the baby gains just 2-2.5 kg. This means the weight gain is low in the second year. In third-year weight gain becomes even lower with the weight gain being just 1.5-2 kg. Thus, there is no reason to worry when the baby’s weight gain speed slows down in the second and third years.
No ideal weight for a baby
The correct weight for a baby is 10% more or less of the standard weight for a baby of that age.