Child Height Predictor

The Child Height Predictor uses the mid-parental height formula to estimate how tall your child is likely to be as an adult. While genetics, nutrition, and health history all influence final height, the mid-parental formula provides a reliable estimate based on the combined heights of both biological parents. The result includes a typical range of ±2 inches (5 cm) to reflect the natural variability in height inheritance.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter the biological father's height in feet/inches or centimeters.
2. Enter the biological mother's height in feet/inches or centimeters.
3. Select the child's sex (male or female) — the formula adjusts the target differently for each.
4. Click Calculate to see the predicted adult height and the typical range.

What This Calculator Measures

This calculator estimates predicted adult height using the mid-parental method.

• Mid-parental height: The average of both parents' heights, adjusted for the child's sex.
• Target height: The single predicted value — the most likely outcome.
• Height range: Target ±2 inches (5 cm) — the range where ~95% of children land.
• Sex adjustment: Boys' targets are shifted up by 2.5 inches; girls' targets are shifted down by 2.5 inches.

Formula or Logic

For boys: Target height = (Father's height + Mother's height + 5 inches) ÷ 2. For girls: Target height = (Father's height + Mother's height − 5 inches) ÷ 2. In centimeters, add or subtract 13 cm instead of 5 inches. The ±2 inch (±5 cm) range captures most normal outcomes; outliers reflect the influence of nutrition, hormones, and other factors.

Example Calculations

Example 1: Father is 5'10" (178 cm), mother is 5'5" (165 cm), child is a boy. Target = (178 + 165 + 13) ÷ 2 = 178 cm (5'10") ±5 cm.

Example 2: Same parents, child is a girl. Target = (178 + 165 − 13) ÷ 2 = 165 cm (5'5") ±5 cm.

Understanding Your Results

The predicted height is not a guarantee — it is a statistical estimate. Children who receive optimal nutrition and are free from chronic illness tend to reach or exceed their genetic potential. Chronic nutritional deficiency or illness during childhood may result in final height below the predicted range.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Treating the prediction as a fixed outcome rather than a probability range.
• Using heights that are not accurate — have parents measured professionally for best results.
• Ignoring other growth factors such as early puberty, chronic disease, or growth hormone disorders.
• Comparing a child's current height to the adult prediction before puberty is complete.