Child Height Predictor Calculator
Estimate a child's adult height using the mid-parental height method. Our calculator uses scientifically validated formulas considering parental genetics and current child data.
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is an educational and clinical decision support tool. Results DO NOT replace professional medical evaluation, laboratory tests, or clinical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decisions. Calculations are based on scientifically validated formulas but may not be applicable to all patients.
Calculate Predicted Height
What is Height Prediction?
Child height prediction uses the mid-parental height method, a scientifically validated technique that estimates a child's adult height based on parents' heights. This method considers that genetics is responsible for 60-80% of a person's final height.
Formula: Boys = (mother's height + father's height + 5in) ÷ 2 | Girls = (mother's height + father's height - 5in) ÷ 2
How to calculate predicted height?
The method is simple: add the parents' heights, add 5 inches for boys (or subtract 5 inches for girls) and divide by 2. For example, parents with 65 inches and 70 inches will have a son with predicted height of (65 + 70 + 5) ÷ 2 = 70 inches.
Interpreting Results
Genetic Factor (60-80%)
Parental genetics is the main determinant. The ±3.35 inch range covers about 68% of actual cases.
Adequate Nutrition
Balanced diet during childhood and adolescence can optimize genetic growth potential.
Health Conditions
Chronic diseases, hormonal deficiencies or health problems can affect final growth.
Lifestyle
Adequate sleep, regular physical activity and absence of chronic stress favor healthy growth.
Method Limitations
The mid-parental height method is a statistical estimate. It does not consider factors such as early or late puberty, specific medical conditions, or ethnic variations. About 32% of children fall outside the ±3.35 inch range due to environmental and health factors. Consult a pediatrician or pediatric endocrinologist for complete growth evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Height Prediction
How accurate is this calculator?
The mid-parental height method has a margin of error of approximately ±3.35 inches (standard deviation). About 68% of children fall within this range, and 95% fall within ±6.7 inches. Environmental and health factors can cause variations.
From what age can I use this calculator?
The calculator is most accurate for children between 4 and 17.5 years old. For younger children, the prediction has a larger margin of error. After 18 years, most people have reached their adult height.
Can my child grow taller than the prediction?
Yes! The prediction is an estimate based on averages. Adequate nutrition, sufficient sleep, regular physical activity, and absence of diseases may allow the child to reach the upper limit of the predicted range or even exceed it.
Should I worry if my child is below the prediction?
Not necessarily. Each child has their own growth pace. If there are concerns, consult a pediatrician or pediatric endocrinologist for growth curve evaluation and possible interventions.
Can height be changed?
While genetics is the main factor, ensuring adequate nutrition, quality sleep, and treatment of medical conditions during the growth phase can optimize the child's genetic height potential.
Does the method work for all ethnicities?
The method is based on studies with European and North American populations. There may be small variations for other ethnicities. The ±3.35 inch margin of error generally accommodates these differences.
Related Topics
- Child growth percentiles
- WHO growth chart
- Height-for-age Z-score
- Bone maturation and pubertal growth spurt
- Factors influencing growth
Scientific References
- 1. Tanner JM, Goldstein H, Whitehouse RH. Standards for children's height at ages 2-9 years allowing for heights of parents. Arch Dis Child. 1970;45(244):755-762.
- 2. Khamis HJ, Roche AF. Predicting adult stature without using skeletal age: the Khamis-Roche method. Pediatrics. 1994;94(4 Pt 1):504-507.
- 3. Wright CM, Cheetham TD. The strengths and limitations of parental heights as a predictor of attained height. Arch Dis Child. 1999;81(3):257-260.
- 4. Silventoinen K, Sammalisto S, Perola M, et al. Heritability of adult body height: a comparative study of twin cohorts in eight countries. Twin Res. 2003;6(5):399-408.