Use our scientific height predictor to estimate your child's future adult height. Based on the Mid-Parental Height method used by pediatricians worldwide.
Predicting a child's future adult height has been a subject of interest for parents and pediatricians for over a century. While no mathematical formula can predict the future with 100% certainty due to the vast number of environmental variables, modern science has given us tools that provide remarkably accurate estimates. The most widely respected and utilized method, which powers this calculator, is the Mid-Parental Height Method (also known as the Tanner Method).
This method operates on the biological principle that height is a highly heritable trait. Research suggests that genetics account for approximately 60% to 80% of the variance in human height. The Mid-Parental Height formula calculates the genetic potential of a child by averaging the parents' heights and making a gender-specific adjustment.
The calculation is straightforward but specific. It takes the average of the parents' height and adds or subtracts 6.5 cm (approx. 2.5 inches) depending on the child's gender. This 13 cm differential represents the average biological height difference between adult males and females in the general population.
Result Range: The calculator provides a specific number, but the actual result typically falls within a range of plus or minus 5 cm (2 inches) of this predicted value.
While the Mid-Parental method is the standard for genetic potential, there are other methods used in clinical settings:
Height is a multifactorial trait. While your DNA provides the blueprint (the potential max height), environmental factors act as the construction crew. If the crew doesn't have the right materials (nutrition) or working conditions (health), the building (child) may not reach the height of the blueprint.
The most dominant factor. Hundreds of gene variants invoke skeletal growth. If both parents are tall, it is highly probable the child will be tall. This accounts for 80% of the final height.
Adequate intake of proteins, calcium, zinc, and Vitamin D is critical. Malnutrition, especially in the first 1000 days of life, can lead to permanent stunting that cannot be reversed.
Growth Hormone (HGH) is heavily mandated by sleep cycles. It is released in pulses, with the largest pulse occurring shortly after the onset of deep sleep (Slow Wave Sleep).
Chronic illnesses (like asthma, celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease) can divert the body's energy from growth to fighting sickness, potentially slowing growth velocity.
Weight-bearing exercise promotes bone density and health. While basketball doesn't "make" you tall, an active lifestyle supports the hormonal balance needed for growth.
Thyroid hormones, sex hormones (estrogen/testosterone), and growth hormones must be in balance. Precocious puberty (early puberty) can actually lead to a shorter stature as growth plates close too early.
You've likely seen the percentiles on a growth chart at the doctor's office. These charts compare your child to other children of the same age and gender.
While children grow at different rates, there are signs that might indicate a growth issue requiring medical attention:
Remember, this calculator is a tool for estimation and curiosity. It does not replace professional medical advice. Every child's growth journey is unique!
Most children reach a height within 5cm (2 inches) of the Mid-Parental Height prediction. However, environmental factors can cause outliers.
This is a common myth. There is no scientific evidence that moderate caffeine consumption stunts growth, though it may affect sleep.
Girls typically stop growing around age 14-15, while boys may continue growing until age 16-18, sometimes even up to 21.
