Why is my child not gaining weight?

Q: My son is 4 years old. His height is 2 feet, but his weight is only 12 kg. What could be the reason behind his slow gain in weight?

A:At 4 years, 12 kg is a bit on the lighter side. It is important to look at the total growth since birth rather than his weight now. If weight gain has been steady, although slightly slow, you should not have a reason to worry. At this age most children gain only one kilogram a year. Look at his weight gain as well as increase in height. If you feel it is not proportionate, get your child examined by a paediatrician.