1. What is the Height Prediction Formula?

The height prediction formula estimates a child's adult height based on the parents' heights, with an adjustment for the child's gender. This method is commonly known as the "mid-parental height" method.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• Mother's Height — Height of the biological mother
• Father's Height — Height of the biological father
• Adjustment — +5 inches (or +13 cm) for boys, -5 inches (or -13 cm) for girls

Explanation: The formula accounts for the average height difference between genders by adding or subtracting an adjustment factor before averaging.

3. Accuracy of Height Prediction

Details: This method provides a rough estimate with a margin of error of about ±4 inches (10 cm). Genetics account for 60-80% of height variation, with nutrition and health affecting the remainder.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both parents' heights in the same unit (inches or centimeters), select the child's gender and preferred unit for the result. For most accurate results, use the parents' adult heights.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this prediction?
A: It's a general estimate - about 68% of children fall within 2 inches (5 cm) of this prediction, and 95% within 4 inches (10 cm).

Q2: Can this predict height for adopted children?
A: No, this method requires biological parents' heights for accurate prediction.

Q3: What if my child is already taller than the prediction?
A: Children may exceed predictions due to better nutrition, health, or other genetic factors.

Q4: Does this work for all ethnicities?
A: The formula works broadly but may be less accurate for populations with significantly different average heights.

Q5: When is a child's adult height finalized?
A: Most girls reach full height by age 15, boys by 16-17, though small changes may occur until early 20s.