If you’ve ever looked at your teenager and wondered, “When did they get so tall?” you’re not alone. Adolescence is a time of remarkable growth — physically, emotionally, and socially. Growth spurts are a normal part of puberty, but they can sometimes leave parents wondering what’s typical and when to call the doctor.
At Irving Coppell Primary Care and Pediatrics, we care for your whole family and help you navigate each stage of development with confidence. Growth sprouting up out of nowhere? Appetite that seems bottomless? Sleep patterns that change overnight? We’re here to walk alongside you through it all.
A growth spurt is a period when a teen’s body grows quickly over weeks or months, thanks to hormonal changes during puberty, especially estrogen and testosterone. These spurts cause their bones to lengthen and their muscles to develop — that’s why teens can shoot up in height seemingly overnight.
Growth spurts typically happen at different ages for different kids — often earlier for girls than boys — and can continue into the late teen years. Here’s what to expect:
A teen might grow a little at 12, then make a big leap at 14. Growth isn’t always steady — it usually happens in spurts.
Growing bodies need fuel. If your teen is eating more, make sure they strive for balanced meals and healthy snacks.
Teens often need more sleep during growth spurts. Encourage them to get those extra Zzzs because rest supports their physical growth and emotional regulation.
Hormones and rapid physical changes can affect your teen’s mood and energy. Patience, consistent routines, and plenty of support help your teen navigate these internal ups and downs.
Some teens grow early, some are “late bloomers,” and all growth patterns can be normal. Comparing their growth rate to their friends or siblings may cause undue anxiety.
Growth spurts are normal, but some signs are worth mentioning to Dr. Raghu Turebylu, MD, our board-certified pediatrician:
If you notice these, don’t worry — but don’t hesitate to call us. Sometimes these changes are part of normal variation; other times, they signal that a deeper evaluation would help.
Growth is more than inches on a chart — it’s about health, confidence, and thriving as your child moves toward adulthood. At Irving Coppell Primary Care and Pediatrics, Dr. Turebylu and our team support teens every step of the way.
Routine physical exams and check-ups allow us to measure height, weight, and body mass index over time. These measurements help us see patterns and address concerns early.
Every teen is different. We help you understand what’s typical for your child and offer tailored advice on nutrition, sleep, activity, and emotional wellness.
We watch for changes in puberty, like hormone levels and emotional health, so that we can support your teen as a whole person, not just a set of numbers on a chart.
If growth seems unusual or accompanied by pain, fatigue, or other concerns, we’re here to talk, test when needed, and make a plan together.
Teen years can feel unpredictable, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Whether you’re celebrating a sudden growth spurt or wondering if something feels “off,” we’re here for the questions, big and small.
If you have concerns about your teen’s growth, development, appetite, or emotional well-being, call Irving Coppell Primary Care and Pediatrics in Irving, Texas, or request an appointment online. Together, we’ll make sure your teen’s body and mind keep growing in healthy, supported ways.
