From that point on, there are constant enquiries about the child's weight and height. The capacity to grow and develop is the essence of the human child, and it is frequently assessed by family, friends and health professionals. Most people, if they see a child growing tall and strong, feel reassured that the child is healthy and their needs are being met. But some children don't grow or gain weight as they should.
Some children appear lethargic, pale and miserable looking while others seem fairly well.
In the UK, where chronic disease in childhood is uncommon, failure to thrive in infants is most often a result of poor feeding techniques, while in older children, unhappy home circumstances and emotional problems are frequently to blame. But many new mothers and their tiny babies struggle to latch on properly and get a good technique going. Get more advice on breast feeding from your health visitor or the La Leche league . Despite being second best for other reasons, babies should thrive on formula milk too. A life-long gluten free diet is usually necessary.