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Track your child's growth using CDC growth charts (ages 2-20)
0.0th
Height: 54 inches
0.0th
Weight: 70 lbs
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BMI: 0.0
Underweight
Based on BMI percentile
Ages 2-5 (Preschool):
Steady growth, 2-3 inches/year, appetite varies
Ages 6-12 (School Age):
Consistent growth, 2-2.5 inches/year, pre-puberty
Ages 13-18 (Adolescence):
Growth spurts, girls peak at 12, boys at 14
Ages 18-20:
Growth slows, girls usually done, boys may continue
A child growth percentile calculator is a medical assessment tool that uses CDC growth charts to evaluate how a child's height, weight, and BMI compare to other children of the same age and gender in the United States. The CDC growth charts are based on nationally representative data collected from thousands of children over several decades. These percentiles help pediatricians and parents track growth patterns during the critical developmental years from age 2 through 20. Unlike baby growth charts which use WHO standards, school-age children are typically evaluated using CDC charts that reflect the diverse population and feeding practices in the US. The calculator provides four key measurements: height percentile shows how tall a child is compared to peers, weight percentile indicates relative body mass, BMI percentile assesses weight-for-height ratio, and growth curve analysis tracks changes over time. Consistent growth along a percentile curve is more important than the specific percentile number, as children naturally come in different sizes based on genetics and other factors.
To calculate child growth percentiles accurately, start by obtaining precise measurements: height should be measured without shoes using a stadiometer with the child standing straight, heels together, and looking forward; weight should be measured on a calibrated scale with the child wearing minimal clothing. Record the child's exact age in years and months. The calculator then uses the CDC's LMS parameters (Lambda for skewness, Mu for median, Sigma for variation) specific to each age and gender. For BMI calculation, divide weight in pounds by height in inches squared, then multiply by 703. The resulting BMI value is then compared to age and gender-specific reference tables to determine the BMI percentile. Each measurement (height, weight, BMI) has its own growth chart and percentile ranking. The CDC defines healthy weight as BMI between the 5th and 84th percentiles, overweight as 85th to 94th percentile, and obese as 95th percentile or above. Growth velocity, or how quickly a child is growing, is assessed by plotting measurements over time on growth curves. Sudden changes in percentile rankings may indicate underlying health issues and warrant medical evaluation.
| Age | Height (Boys) | Height (Girls) | Weight (Boys) | Weight (Girls) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 years | 34.6 in | 34.0 in | 28 lbs | 27 lbs |
| 5 years | 42.9 in | 42.5 in | 40 lbs | 39 lbs |
| 10 years | 54.5 in | 54.3 in | 70 lbs | 72 lbs |
| 15 years | 67.0 in | 63.8 in | 125 lbs | 115 lbs |
| 20 years | 69.2 in | 64.2 in | 155 lbs | 125 lbs |
Any percentile between the 5th and 95th is generally considered healthy for height and weight. For BMI, the healthy range is 5th to 84th percentile. What matters most is that your child follows a consistent growth curve over time.
Children typically experience growth spurts during infancy, preschool years (ages 3-4), and puberty. Girls usually have their major puberty growth spurt around age 12, while boys typically experience it around age 14. Individual timing varies considerably.
It's normal for height and weight percentiles to differ. Many healthy children have different percentiles for each measurement. The BMI percentile is more important as it accounts for the relationship between height and weight.
School-age children (ages 6-12) typically grow about 2-2.5 inches per year and gain 4-7 pounds annually. During puberty, growth accelerates significantly with annual height gains of 3-4 inches or more during peak growth years.
Height percentiles in late childhood provide a general indication of adult height, but predictions are more accurate after puberty begins. Mid-parental height (average of parents' heights) combined with current growth patterns offers the best prediction.
Dropletping percentiles can result from chronic illness, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal issues, or stress. Minor fluctuations are normal, but a drop of more than two major percentile lines warrants evaluation by a pediatrician.
Not necessarily. Higher percentiles simply mean larger size, not better health. A child in the 25th percentile can be just as healthy as one in the 75th percentile. Consistency over time and overall health are what matter most.
Adequate nutrition is essential for reaching genetic growth potential. Chronic undernutrition can slow growth, while excessive calorie intake can lead to high BMI percentiles. Balanced nutrition supports optimal growth along a child's natural genetic curve.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Growth percentiles are screening tools that require interpretation by qualified healthcare providers. Consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance about your child's growth, nutrition, and overall health. Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious concerns about your child's development or health status.