Every parent needs to know the ideal weight of the baby, because the baby's weight is one measure of how well it grows and develops. Therefore, let's identify the ideal baby weight in his first year.
Each baby is born with a different weight, but the normal is around 2.5–4 kg. The first few days after birth, the baby will experience weight loss. On day 10, usually the baby's weight will return to the same as at birth or even more.
To monitor its growth, the baby's weight needs to be weighed regularly and recorded. This recording can be done in the Maternal and Child Health book which is usually available at the Puskesmas.
Ideal Baby Weight 1–3 Months
In the early months after birth, the baby's growth will take place so fast. When a baby is 3 months old, the average ideal weight for a baby boy is 5–7.9 kg with a length of 60–65 cm. While for baby girls, the ideal weight ranges from 4.6-7.4 kg with a body length of 55-63 cm.
The increase in weight and height at this age is most influenced by children's nutritional intake. At the age of 3 months, babies need nutrition from breast milk at least 8 times a day, or formula milk 4 times. The ideal dose given for one feeding is 180–200 ml.
Adequacy of infant nutrition can be seen from the habits of defecation (BAB) in infants. Normally, babies will defecate 1-2 times a day. However, not defecating for 1-2 days is still normal, as long as the stool is not too hard.
Ideal Baby Weight 4-6 Months
The growth and development of babies at the age of 4-6 months is also quite rapid. At the age of 6 months, the ideal weight for a baby boy is 6.4–9.7 kg with a body length of about 63–71 cm. While for baby girls, the ideal weight ranges from 5.8-9.2 kg with a body length of 61-70 cm.
Gain in weight and height at this age is influenced by various factors, including:
1. Breastmilk intake
At the age of 6 months, babies can be given breast milk every 3-4 hours until they are full. If you are bottle feeding, give it 6 times a day at a rate of about 125 ml. For babies who are given formula milk, give it 6 times a day at a dose of about 180-250 ml.
2. Intake of MPASI
When entering the age of 6 months, babies can be given complementary foods (MPASI). Introduce MPASI slowly with small portions and the softest texture. Once you get used to it, you can give complementary foods 3 times a day.
Ideal Baby Weight 7-12 Months
At the age of 12 months, the baby's weight usually increases up to 3 times its birth weight. In baby boys, the ideal weight can reach 7.8–11.8 kg with a height of 71–80 cm. As for baby girls, the ideal weight is in the range of 7.1–11.3 kg with a height of 69–79 cm.
Weight gain and infant development at this age is influenced by:
1. Milk intake
At the age of 12 months, children can be introduced to whole milk or cow's milk in addition to breast milk. In infants who consume formula milk, giving whole milk or cow's milk can also be given alternately. Give the baby milk as much as 2-3 times a day with a dose of about 250 ml.
2. Complementary food
When entering the age of 12 months, babies can already eat various types of food. However, keep an eye on the nutritional content of the food and also the texture of the food you eat to prevent your child from choking. The ideal eating schedule for 1 year old children is 3 main meals with 2 healthy snacks.
The growth rate of each baby can indeed vary, but if your little one's weight is less or more than the ideal weight range, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will provide advice regarding diet and nutritional improvements that can be made to achieve the baby's ideal weight.