When to Worry About Your Child’s Growth: Early Puberty & Late Bloomers

Recognizing Red Flags and When to Seek Guidance

Watching Your Child Grow

For most children, growth follows a predictable curve. But when a child’s pattern suddenly changes — speeding up, slowing down, or stalling — it can signal that something in their body needs attention.

At Life Pediatric Endocrinology, we help families understand when “different” is still normal — and when it’s time to look closer.

Normal Growth vs. Red Flags

Normal:

• Growth stays near the same percentile line on the chart.

• Puberty starts within typical age ranges (girls 8–13, boys 9–14).

• Weight and height rise together proportionally.

Red Flags:

• Crossing two or more percentile lines downward on the growth chart.

• Puberty starting too early (before 8 in girls, 9 in boys).

• Puberty not starting by 13 in girls or 14 in boys.

• Height below the 3rd percentile or above the 97th percentile.

• Poor appetite, fatigue, or frequent illness.

Why Growth Can Go Off Track

• Nutrition problems: Not enough protein or calories.

• Hormonal imbalances: Growth hormone, thyroid, or sex hormones may be low or high.

• Chronic illness: Asthma, celiac disease, or autoimmune issues can slow growth.

• Psychological stress: Anxiety and undernutrition sometimes present as “stalled growth.”

Our job is to find the “why,” not just treat the chart.

FAQ: Families Often Ask…

1. How do I know if my child is truly falling behind?
A drop across percentile lines — especially if sustained — deserves evaluation.

2. Can early puberty affect height?
Yes. Once puberty begins, growth plates start to close. Managing early puberty can protect height potential.

3. My child seems healthy but isn’t growing. Could it be hormones?
Yes. Growth hormone or thyroid issues can exist even in otherwise healthy children.

4. What if my child is just a “late bloomer”?
That’s often the case. Bone age X-rays can help confirm whether growth is simply delayed or needs attention.

Schedule a Comprehensive Growth Assessment

If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s growth pattern, don’t wait and wonder. Schedule a Comprehensive Growth Assessment with Life Pediatric Endocrinology.
Our experts in growth, puberty, and bone health can uncover the cause — and help your child grow with confidence.

➡️ Book your consultation today to bring clarity and peace of mind.

About Dr. Toni Kim

Dr. Kim is the Chief Medical Officer of Life Pediatric Endocrinology, internationally recognized for leadership in growth and puberty medicine.