Mid Parental Height Calculator | Check Child Height Calculator

Child Height Calculator

This child height calculator answers the question of how tall will your children be? We use two very different methods and describe in detail how to calculate a child’s height. If you already have a child over four years old, our future height calculator uses a scientifically proven formula to determine their height. But if your kid is younger, you’re just curious, or maybe you are pregnant, we have a child height predictor that calculates the child’s height basing on parents height. It’s called the Mid-Parental Height Formula.

In the article below you can learn about a variety of height related topics, such as when do girls and boys stop growing and what is the average male height. Moreover, we are discussing how to get taller (and whether it is possible at all).

What does a child’s height depend on?

How tall will my child be? Will they be as tall as the dad or average like their grandpa? These questions thrill almost every parent during pregnancy and while the child is continuously growing in the early years. Lots of us believe that children are usually taller than their parents. For sure, that is not a rule, and these trends vary from child to child and from family to family.

The single most significant factor here is genetics. However, environmental aspects still have a lot of impact on the child’s height! Let’s take a look at a few important points:

1. Nutrition – growth requires a lot of energy! Overweight children tend to be taller than others, but staying fit is crucial for their development. You can check your ideal weight using our ideal weight calculator.
2. Hormone levels, especially growth hormone or thyroid hormones.
3. Health conditions, such as coeliac disease or arthritis.
4. Medications, such as corticosteroids, can affect growth.
5. Genetic conditions: for example, children with Marfan’s syndrome tend to grow higher, while children with Down’s syndrome are usually shorter than others.

As you can see, one of the most crucial aspects is nutrition. It is so significant that scientists suggest the proper question to consider should be “How much variation (the difference between individuals) in height is attributable to genetic effects and how much to nutritional effects?”.

The answer is that about 60-80% of the individual’s height is determined by genetics. The role of environmental factors (especially nutrition) is estimated to be around 20-40%. These numbers come from estimations of the heritability of human height and from research examining what proportions of the height variation are determined by genetics.

Height – the genetics behind a human appearance

Basing on various scientific studies, heritability contributes to around 80 percent of a child’s height. A Finnish study on almost 9000 twins arrived at results of 78 percent for men and 75 percent for women. As we can see, the heritability varies even for men and women. These values may vary a lot between ethnic populations as well. This is mainly due to different living environments (including nutrition, lifestyle and climate conditions) and different genetics combinations across communities. In Asian and African populations, the height heritability is notably lower. Miao-Xin Li of Human Normal University in China estimated that in the Chinese population, the heritability equals 65 percent. A similar value was found in studies done by D. F. Roberts in western Africa.

Heritability allows us to consider how the person’s height is determined. Let’s analyze it on the following example: a man who is 183 cm (6 ft) tall. The white male population has an average height of 178 cm (5 ft 10 in) with a heritability of 80 percent. Our individual is 5 cm taller than the population average. Analysis of heritability suggests how much of his extra height is a genetic cause and how much is due to environmental factors. In this example, we can say, that 4 cm of his extra height is thanks to genetics (80%) and the 1 cm (20%) is an environmental effect (probably a result of good nutrition).

Genetic and Environmental Factors:

How tall will I be? – how to calculate a child’s height

Predicting a child’s growth and final adult height can be done using a few different methods, each with varying complexity and accuracy. Here’s a brief breakdown of these methods:

There are a few methods of predicting the growth of a child. Some of them use mathematical estimations as a base and are totally safe (because the child is not exposed to any hazardous factors). The one we provide here (the Khamis-Roche Formula) is proven to be the most accurate without the use of skeletal age. The most straightforward method (Mid-Parental height formula) is based on parents’ height.

The other conventional method of height prediction uses roentgen radiation (which is potentially hazardous). It is, however, the most accurate way. Determining the child’s “bone age” is done by using X-ray medical imaging of the child’s hand.

The Khamis-Roche child height predictor

The Khamis-Roche Method is reliable for predicting a child’s adult height. Using a mathematical equation that factors in the parents’ height, current child height, and current child weight, this approach offers a high degree of accuracy for children over four years old. Developed at Wright State University in 1994 by Dr Harry Khamis and Dr Alex Roche, this method has a margin of error of 2.1 inches for boys and 1.7 inches for girls. However, its predictive accuracy may be slightly less for children of non-Caucasian descent, as the original research was conducted on Caucasian children.

The Mid-Parental Formula: Calculating Child Height Based on Parental Height

The mid-parental formula provides a simple calculation for a child’s potential height:

• Mid-Parental Height: Calculate the average of the mother’s and father’s heights.
• For a Girl’s Future Height: Subtract 2½ inches (or 6.5 cm) from the mid-parental height.
• For a Boy’s Future Height: Add 2½ inches (or 6.5 cm) to the mid-parental height

You can expect a margin of error of about four inches either way. You can convert metric to imperial length units using our length calculator.

As we have already discussed, a child’s height is primarily determined by genetics. However, it does not depend solely on the parents height. It’s inherited in a way so that children may be taller or shorter than their parents since height inheritance is polygenic – the answer to how tall your child will be is scattered among many genes.

Bone age – skeletal maturity prediction

The maturity of a child’s skeletal system might be estimated by using a bone age study. It consists of taking a single X-ray of the left wrist, hand, and fingers. It is a painless procedure that exposes the individual to a very small amount of radiation. Afterwards, the image is compared to standard images from a bone development atlas, where the references were made on large studies of kids. Bone age is measured in years.

The growth of bones is possible thanks to a particular area within two ends of long bones – the growth plate. This is a hyaline cartilage plate, which consists of actively growing cells. These plates can be found in children’s bones, and, in adolescents, they turn into an epiphysial line (the residue of growth plate). This replacement is called epiphysial closure or growth plate fusion. The fusions complete in age 12-16 for girls and 14-19 for boys.

Growth plates are easy to identify on an X-ray because they are softer and contain less minerals than standard bone. That makes them appear darker than the rest of the skeleton on the X-ray image. They look different at each age – thanks to that, a doctor can determine the bone maturity by simply reviewing its appearance. Then, the image is compared with the closest matching image from an atlas.

Observing a difference between a child’s bone age and their chronological age may point to a growth problem, but it is not the rule. Some kids with perfect health can have a disparity in skeletal and chronological age.

The control of bone age is done to assess the tempo of the maturing process of a child’s skeleton. This allows doctors to diagnose conditions that delay or accelerate physical growth. Using the skeletal age, physicians may predict:

• how long the child will be still growing for,
• child’s final height,
• the start of puberty.

The study is also used to monitor the treatment process of kids with growth deficiencies. There are plenty of factors that may affect growth:

• hormone – related diseases (adrenal gland disorders, growth hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism),
• genetic disorders (e.g., Turner syndrome),
• orthopedic as well as orthodontic problems, the treatment of which must be planned according to child’s predicted growth.

The difference in hand bones, years 3, 6, 12, 18

source: “Atlas of hand bone age”, V.Gilsanz, O.Ratib by Springer

Understanding Height Growth: Is it Possible After Puberty?

It’s common for individuals to question if they can increase their height, especially after puberty. Here are some key points to consider:

• Genetics’ Role: Genetics predominantly determine a person’s height, accounting for 60-80% of the final height.

• Growth Plates and Long Bones: Growth primarily happens in the long bones, facilitated by specialised cartilage – the growth plates.

• Post-Puberty Growth: Once growth plates close after puberty, it’s generally accepted that an increase in bone length, and consequently height, is unlikely.

• Daily Fluctuations: Slight daily changes in height can occur due to spinal disc compression throughout the day. We tend to be tallest just after waking up and shortest at the end of an active day.

Myths about Height Increase: Some myths suggest that certain exercises or stretching can promote height increase. However, there is no substantial scientific evidence to back these claims.

Promoting Healthy Growth During Developmental Years

During childhood and adolescence, leading up to puberty, a healthy lifestyle can influence growth positively:

• Adequate Sleep: Sufficient sleep is crucial as growth hormone is primarily released during deep sleep.

• Balanced Nutrition: A diet rich in macronutrients and micronutrients provides the necessary fuel for growth and development.

• Regular Physical Activity: Regular exercise, especially activities that involve stretching and jumping, can help stimulate growth.

Growth charts

Standardized growth charts are an essential tool used by doctors to determine whether a child is growing as expected. They are based on regular measurements of a child’s height, weight, head size, and BMI. To find these values, you can use our BMI calculator or child BMI calculator.

The most popular charts are the WHO Charts for infants and children ages 0 to 2 and CDC Charts for children above 2. You can check them here. They are also helpful for judging the onset of puberty in an older child.

When do girls stop growing? – average female height

Growth process differs between girls and boys. Female growth is fast in childhood, and when they reach puberty, it speeds up rapidly. They achieve adult height usually at the age of 14-15, or a couple of years after menstruation occurs the first time.

Following the growth charts from CDC, the average height of adult woman at age 20 is 64-65 in (163 cm). In the table below, you can find a few other numbers for different ages.

When do boys stop growing? – average male height

Boys come into puberty later than girls. They start entering it at the age of 12-15, so the biggest growth happens around 2 years later than for girls. The rate of height growth for most boys slows down around 16 years old, but their body mass (mainly muscles) continue to develop. According to CBC, the average male height around 20 years old is 69.5 in (177 cm). Check below for the median height of boys during childhood and teenage years.

How to get taller?

Many people are not satisfied with their height. That is the reason why they keep asking questions like how to get taller? Is it possible to increase height? How can I grow taller as an adult? Firstly, we should consider a general question – is it possible to increase the height after puberty at all?

In the text above, we found that majority of a persons height is determined by genetics (60-80%), and the body grows by lengthening its long bones (thanks to special cartilage located in long bones – growth plates). The conclusion is that after the closure of growth plates, it is not possible to increase bones length. It means that a human cannot grow taller. However, we can observe slight daily variations in height for most adults. The cause of these changes lies in spinal disc compression through the day. Daily activities impact the disc cartilage, which results in their height reduction. Note that we are tallest just after night and shortest at the end of a long and active day.

You may come across myths about some techniques that will allow you to grow. Most popular activities are certain forms of exercising (e.g. weightlifting) and stretching. Unfortunately, there is no good scientific evidence to prove these methods. We would recommend that you do not let it worry you, as it is something that you can do seemingly nothing about.

For sure, during the childhood and teenage years, while puberty time is on, a healthy lifestyle allows your kid to grow in the right way. At that time, it is very important to sleep enough, eat well (provide enough macronutrients and micronutrients to the developing body), and do sports.

Remember that Omni Calculator is not a doctor. If you believe your child is too short or too tall, please consult a pediatrician.

FAQ

Can identical twins be different heights?

Yes, identical twins can be different heights. This is because a small percentage of the factors that determine height are environmental, so if one twin receives a more nutrient rich diet, they will likely be taller, even though they are genetically the same.

How can I increase my height?

If you are a child, eat as much as you can on a healthy diet! If you are an adult, you cannot grow anymore, but you can appear taller by keeping a good posture. Stand straight up to realise your tallest potential.

What is the average height for a 12 year old?

The average height of a 12 year old boy is 148.3 cm (4 ft 10), while for a 12 year old girl it is 150.0 cm (4ft 11). The reason girls are slightly taller at this age is because, on average, they go through puberty earlier than boys.

What is the average height for a 13 year old?

The average height of a 13 year old girl is 155.4 cm (5 ft 1), and for a 13 year old boy it is 154.9 (5 ft 0). This data is taken from WHO growth charts, which are the international standard for height percentiles.

When do girls stop growing?

On average, a girl will stop growing when she is around 14 – 15 years old. Her final growth spurt should occur roughly 2 years after her period has begun, and roughly 4 years after puberty has begun.

How do you measure height?

1. Stand next to a wall with your back to it. A floor that is not carpeted will give more accurate results.
2. Remove any headwear and footwear and stand against the wall as straight as possible. Your head, shoulders, back and heels should all be touching the wall.
3. Using a mirror, place a hardback book or box on your head, so that it forms a right angle with the wall.
4. Mark with a pencil (or with a sticky note if you don’t want to mark the wall) where the bottom of the book meets the wall.
5. Measure from the mark to the floor to find your height.

Is height genetic?

Height is said to be around 80% genetic, with the other 20% being environmental. You can think about it as genetics determining someone’s maximum height, while their nutrition and other factors deciding if they get there or not. Someone with a poor diet growing up will not realise their height potential.

At what age do boys stop growing?

The average that boys stop growing is 16, but this can be as late as 18, depending on when he entered puberty. As a general rule, boys will stop growing around 4 years after they have entered puberty. They may continue to get muscular, however.

What is the average height for a 14 year old?

The average height for a 14 year old boy is 162.4 cm (5 ft 3), while for girls it is 159.8 cm (5 ft 2). Expect a large variation in height at this age, however, some people will have finished puberty, while some may not have started yet. Read more.

What is the average height for a 10 year old?

The average height of a 10 year old girl is 138.6 cm (4 ft 6), while for boys it is 138.4 (also 4 ft 6). The reason for this similarity is that, at a population level, puberty hasn’t begun to cause growth spurts yet, and both sexes are the same height until sexual differences occur during puberty.