The pattern of human growthGrowth is a process in which our body increase in size, appearance and function.Growth is irreversible and permanentAs a person grows, he undergoes changes in body shape and function

Human growth rate is not constantHuman growth can be determined by measuring physical characteristics such as height and weightThese measurements are plotted against time to obtain a growth curvedHuman growth is completed when an individual reaches adulthoodThe growth pattern for the human male and female are not the same

Infant (0 2 years)

There is a period of rapid growth during infancy. The growth for male and female infants are more or less the sameThe weight of the baby trebles in the first yearThe babys head is large compared with its body

Child (2 11 years)During the childhood stage, the growth rate is slow for both sexes, but boys grow slightly faster than girls

Physical Development - Growth is slow but steady. They have gained control of their major muscles. Most children have a good sense of balance. They can stand on one foot and walk on a balance beam. They enjoy performing physical tricks. They enjoy testing muscle strength and skills. They like to skip, run, tumble, and dance to music. They can catch small balls. They can manage buttons and zippers. They can learn to tie their shoelaces. They can print their names. They can copy designs and shapes including numbers and letters. They use utensils and tools correctly with supervision.

Adolescent (11 18 years)During the early stage of adolescence, girls grow more rapidly than boys. This is because they reach puberty earlier than boysBoys reach puberty at about the age of 14. Thereafter, they begin to show rapid growthGirls achieve their maximum physical growth by the age of 18, while boys continue to grow until they are about 20 years old.

Adult (above 18)Normal growth stops around the age of about 20Men are usually taller and heavier than women during adulthood

Old ageAn elderly person will lose weight and height because the body shrinksThe person is said to have negative growth

Children need a balance diet for normal growthIf they do not get enough nutrients from their diet, their physical and mental development will be affected.