Look at any class picture, and you’ll see kids of the same age in all shapes and sizes. Some kids look tiny next to their peers, while others literally stand head and shoulders above their classmates.
As easy as it is to make these comparisons and to draw conclusions about what you see, the reality is that kids grow at their own pace. Big, small, tall, short — there is a wide range of healthy shapes and sizes among children.
Genetics, gender, nutrition, physical activity, health problems, environment, hormones, and lifestyle factors like nutrition and physical activity all influence a child’s height and weight. And many of these factors can vary widely from family to family.
1. Mid parental height or MPH
Did you know you can calculate the potential height of a child by adult age by using a simple formula known as ‘Mid parental height calculation’ or MPH.
Mid parental height (MPH) formula:
• Comparison with child’s own genetic potential
• MPH for boys = mother’s height + father’s height divide by 2 (+6.cm)
• MPH for girls = mother’s height + father’s height divide by 2 (- 6.cm)
So for example of a boy is:
• MPH for a boy = mother’s height 163 cm + father’s height 185 cm = 348 /2 = 174 + 6 = 180 cm (5ft9)
The 180 cm measurement will be plotted on Growth Chart at age 20 to form a family chart.
Or you can use the calculator here
2. Measuring children under 2 years old
Best way of measuring children under two years old, is to measure them lying flat, and best nude as clothing including a nappy can distort the hips and shorten the measurement.
For crown heel length – ensure the baby’s feet are at 90 deg (not pointed) and head is supported.