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Predict child's adult height based on parents' heights
This calculator uses the mid-parental height formula, which averages parents' heights and adjusts for gender. It's a simple, commonly used method with ±2 inch accuracy.
Enter parents' heights to predict child's height
Formula: (Mother + Father + 5") / 2
Add 5 inches to account for male height advantage, then average
Formula: (Mother + Father - 5") / 2
Subtract 5 inches to account for female height difference, then average
Primary determinant of height. Inherited from both parents, with complex polygenic patterns.
Adequate protein, calcium, vitamins D & A crucial during growth years. Malnutrition stunts growth.
Chronic illness, growth hormone levels, thyroid function affect final height.
Growth hormone released during deep sleep. Adequate sleep essential for growth.
Regular exercise promotes healthy growth. Extreme training may affect growth plates.
Stress, toxins, medications, and socioeconomic factors can impact growth.
Rapid growth: ~10" first year, ~5" second year
Steady growth: ~2-2.5" per year
Growth spurt: ~3-3.5" per year at peak. Most reach adult height by 15-16
Growth spurt: ~4" per year at peak. May grow until 18-20 years old
The mid-parental height method is accurate within ±2 inches (5 cm) for most children. About 95% of children fall within 4 inches of the prediction. However, individual variation exists due to nutrition, health, and genetic complexity.
Girls typically reach adult height by age 14-16, though some grow until 18. Boys usually stop growing by 16-18, but can continue until 20-21. Growth plates close after puberty ends.
Yes! Proper nutrition during growth years significantly impacts height. Adequate protein, calcium, vitamin D, and overall calories are essential. Malnutrition can prevent reaching genetic potential.
On average, men are about 5 inches taller than women. This adjustment accounts for sex-specific height differences, making predictions more accurate for each gender.
The calculator averages their heights, so the prediction will fall between them (adjusted for gender). Children of parents with large height differences have more variability in outcomes.
Yes! Height is polygenic (many genes involved). A child can inherit 'tall' genes from grandparents or other relatives, potentially exceeding both parents' heights.
Growth hormone therapy only works for diagnosed deficiencies. For children with normal hormone levels, no supplements or medications increase height. Focus on nutrition, sleep, and health instead.
The prediction becomes more reliable as children get older. By age 2, you can estimate with reasonable accuracy. However, it's most accurate after the growth spurt begins in puberty.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Actual adult height depends on many factors including genetics, nutrition, health, and environment. Predictions have typical accuracy of ±2 inches but individual variation exists. Consult pediatricians for growth concerns.