Child Height Calculator - Predict Adult Height
Estimate your child's future adult height based on parents' heights using scientifically-proven formulas. Get predicted height ranges and understand the factors that influence growth.
Height Prediction Calculator
How Child Height Prediction Works
Our child height calculator uses the well-established Mid-Parental Height Method, which is widely used by pediatricians and growth specialists. This method has been validated through decades of research and provides reasonably accurate predictions for most children.
The Mid-Parental Height Formula
The calculation differs slightly based on the child's sex:
- For boys: (Father's height + Mother's height + 13 cm) ÷ 2
- For girls: (Father's height + Mother's height - 13 cm) ÷ 2
The 13 cm adjustment accounts for the average height difference between adult males and females.
Accuracy and Limitations
This method typically predicts adult height within ±8.5 cm (±3.3 inches) about 68% of the time. However, several factors can influence the accuracy:
- Genetics: Height is polygenic, influenced by many genes
- Nutrition: Adequate nutrition during growth years is crucial
- Health conditions: Chronic illnesses can affect growth
- Hormonal factors: Growth hormone and other hormones play key roles
- Environmental factors: Stress, exercise, and lifestyle can impact growth
When Predictions May Be Less Accurate
The mid-parental height method may be less reliable when:
- Parents have significantly different ancestry backgrounds
- There are known genetic conditions affecting growth
- The child has experienced nutritional deficiencies
- There are hormonal disorders present
- The family has a history of unusually early or late puberty
Additional Growth Prediction Methods
Healthcare providers may use additional methods for more precise predictions:
- Bone age assessment: X-rays of the hand and wrist to determine skeletal maturity
- Growth velocity tracking: Monitoring the child's growth rate over time
- Tanner staging: Assessment of pubertal development stage
- Growth charts: Plotting the child's growth trajectory on standardized charts
Supporting Healthy Growth
While genetics largely determine adult height, parents can support optimal growth through:
- Providing balanced, nutritious meals with adequate protein and calcium
- Ensuring sufficient sleep (growth hormone is released during sleep)
- Encouraging regular physical activity and exercise
- Managing stress and providing emotional support
- Regular pediatric check-ups to monitor growth
- Addressing any health issues promptly