What is failure to thrive?

Failure to thrive is a term used to describe a child who seems to be gaining weight or height more slowly than other children of the same age and sex. A baby who has failed to thrive may seem slow to develop physical skills, such as rolling over, standing, and walking. Slow growth also can lead to delays in mental and social skills.

If your child's failure to thrive is caused by a medical condition, your doctor may be able to treat the condition. That may be enough to help your child begin to gain weight at a normal rate. If your child has emotional problems or has been affected by conditions at home, treatment may need to include counseling and improving the home situation.

Your doctor may recommend that your child receive nutritional therapy in the hospital. Your child may be able to develop at a normal rate if the period of failure to thrive has been short.

• If your baby is nursing, talk to your doctor. Make sure that you have enough breast milk. And find out if your baby is nursing well.
• If your baby is bottle-fed, talk to your doctor about the correct way to prepare the formula. Also, talk with your doctor about ways to give your child more nutrition from the formula.
• If your child is school-age:
  • Have a regular snack and meal schedule. Most children do well with three meals and two or three snacks a day.
  • Eat as a family as often as you can. Try to enjoy meals together.
  • Be a good role model. Let your child see you eat the food that you want your child to eat.
• Do not let your child fill up on drinks instead of eating a meal. Try holding the drink back until your child eats some food.
• If your child is not interested in eating, try to increase your child's physical activity. Limit TV, video games, or computer time.
• Do not use food as a reward for success or good behavior.
• If your doctor recommends meeting with a dietitian or counselor, go to your appointments. You may need a series of visits.
• If you or your child is not getting enough food, ask your doctor about programs such as WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), food banks, and food pantries.