Pediatrician and his essential role in the growth and development of the child Child's growth and development is a complex, gradual and at the same time very sensitive process. Every stage of a child's life - from infancy, childhood to adolescence - requires careful monitoring and timely interventions in case of problems. In the meantime, as a child's health guide, the pediatrician plays a key role in examining the growth process, diagnosing disorders, and planning to improve and promote the child's development. referring to a pediatrician is not only for the treatment of diseases, but also the most important tool for prevention, monitoring and sustainable development of the child in all physical, mental, movement and behavioral dimensions. The difference between growth and development in pediatric medicine **Growth:** It is called a quantitative increase in body dimensions such as weight, height and head circumference. It is usually monitored by global growth charts. **Development:** It includes qualitative achievements such as learning to walk, talk, control emotions, social skills, interaction with others and cognitive functioning. A pediatrician assesses growth by physical measurements, and development by observing behavior, clinical tests, and asking parents. Stages of growth and development at different ages and the doctor's role in each stage **Infancy period (0 to 12 months)** Rapid weight and height growth: a baby should gain three times its birth weight by one year of age. Early developmental skills: smiling, rolling over, sitting, crawling, standing, responding to sounds, beginning to speak Necessary doctor assessments: - Checking weight and growth chart - Check hand-eye coordination - Auditory and visual reactions - Examination of muscle tone and nerve reflexes - Advice on nutrition, sleep and sensory stimulation **Infants (1 to 3 years old)** Motor skills: walking, running, going up and down stairs Language development: saying simple sentences, naming objects Social behavior: playing with other children, imitation, responding to names The role of the doctor: - Examining fine and gross motor skills - Assessment of language and cognitive development - Detection of developmental delay with screenings such as the M-CHAT autism test - Guidance of parents to improve the child's speech and behavior **Preschool age (3 to 6 years old)** Early learning: recognition of colors, shapes, numbers Development of social skills: cooperation in group play, taking turns More complete verbal communication: telling stories, describing feelings The role of the doctor: - Accurate assessment of speech, attention and concentration - Examining anxiety, aggression, extreme dependency - Providing educational and psychological solutions - Examining the child's readiness for school - School and adolescent ages (6 to 18 years old) Secondary physical development: sexual maturity, rapid height growth, mood changes Personal identity formation: strengthening critical thinking, decision making, lasting friendships The role of the doctor: Screening for learning problems, attention deficit disorder and anxiety Examining mental problems (such as teenage depression) Review of nutrition, height, bone and hormonal status Education about sexual health and personal hygiene When should you worry about a child's growth or development? Warning signs Some signs that should not be ignored: - The child does not have a social smile until 6 months - He does not roll or sit until 9 months - It does not stop until 12 months - He doesn't say specific words until 18 months old - He does not make sentences until he is 2 years old - No eye contact - Repetitive behaviors (such as waving hands, turning objects) - Extreme aggression, extreme fears - Difficulty communicating with others - Sudden loss or cessation of weight or height In these cases, the doctor may refer the child to the following specialists: - Speech therapist - Occupational therapist - Pediatric neurologist - Psychologist or child psychiatrist Factors affecting growth and development from the perspective of a child doctor Genetics: play a fundamental role, but only part of the story. Nutrition: Lack of iron, vitamin D, iodine and omega-3 can have a serious negative effect. Psychological and social environment: Children who grow up in stressful environments are more prone to behavioral and cognitive problems. Play and communication: key tools for the development of a child's mind and brain. Proper sleep: insufficient or poor quality sleep leads to concentration disorders, nervous behaviors and reduced physical growth. Recommendations of a pediatrician to promote child development Play interactive games with the child Talk to the child every day, read stories Stay away from TV and cell phones until they are 2 years old Send the child to a kindergarten with an environment rich in social interactions have regular night sleep (at least 10 hours until 6 years old) Do not skip the breakfast meal Check the child's weight regularly and record it in the chart Instead of punishment, use a reward and encouragement system Consult your child's doctor if you have any concerns about growth #### The role of the pediatrician in the education of parents One of the most important duties of a pediatrician is to educate parents. Many behavioral disorders, developmental delays and communication problems are caused by incorrect educational, nutritional and psychological methods. The pediatrician guides the parents in the following areas: - Useful game modes - How to deal with stubbornness - Sleep regulation skills - Toilet training - Speech therapy methods at home - Coping with the child's hyperactivity or shyness #### Summary Child growth and development is the most important investment of families for their children's future. A pediatrician, using scientific knowledge, clinical tools and close communication with families, is the best supporter of a child in the path of healthy, dynamic and complete development. Regular visits to experienced pediatricians in Tehran, performing timely screenings, receiving psychological, educational and nutritional counseling, and close cooperation between parents and the treatment team are the foundations of our children's physical and mental health.