Child Height Predictor

Predict adult height from parent heights using the mid-parental method.

Child's Sex

Predicted Adult Height

5′10″

176.5 cm

Low Estimate

5′6″

High Estimate

6′1″

Height Details

Predicted Height5′10″ (176.5 cm)
Likely Range5′6″ – 6′1″
Range in cm167.9 cm – 185.2 cm
Mother's Height5′4″
Father's Height5′10″

Uses the mid-parental height method (±3.4 inches). This predicts within 2 inches for about 50% of children. Genetics, nutrition, health, and other factors significantly affect final adult height. This is an estimate, not a diagnosis.

Use the Child Height Predictor above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our Child Height Predictor uses the widely accepted mid-parental method to estimate your child's adult height. This tool provides a fascinating glimpse into your child's potential growth trajectory, offering insights that can be useful for planning and understanding their development. While not a definitive prediction, it offers a statistically relevant estimation based on genetic inheritance, a key factor in human growth, especially in 2026 where genetic research continues to advance rapidly.

The mid-parental method calculates the average of the biological mother's and father's heights, then adjusts for the child's sex. For boys, we add 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) to the average, and for girls, we subtract 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). This formula accounts for the general height differences between adult males and females, providing a personalized estimate based on established growth patterns observed in populations globally.

Remember that this prediction is an estimate, not a guarantee, as many factors beyond genetics influence height, such as nutrition, health, and environmental conditions. Avoid common mistakes like inputting non-biological parent heights or ignoring significant growth-stunting medical conditions. For the most accurate results, use the biological parents' heights and understand that a typical height range of +/- 4 inches (10 cm) from the predicted value is common.

Example: Predicting Sarah's Adult Height

  1. 1 Step 1: Input Parent Heights. Let's say Sarah's biological mother is 5'4" (162.5 cm) and her biological father is 5'10" (177.8 cm).
  2. 2 Step 2: Calculate Mid-Parental Height. The average height is (162.5 cm + 177.8 cm) / 2 = 170.15 cm. Since Sarah is a girl, we subtract 6.35 cm.
  3. 3 Step 3: Determine Predicted Adult Height. Sarah's predicted adult height is 170.15 cm - 6.35 cm = 163.8 cm (approximately 5'4.5").
  4. 4 Step 4: Understand the Context. This means Sarah is most likely to be around 5'4.5" tall as an adult, with a typical range between 5'0.5" and 5'8.5". This prediction helps parents visualize her potential growth and provides a general benchmark for her development.

Source: CDC · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is the mid-parental height prediction?
The mid-parental method predicts adult height within a range of plus or minus 2 inches about 68% of the time. It is a rough estimate based on genetics and does not account for nutrition, health conditions, or other environmental factors that influence growth.
How do you predict a child height from parent heights?
For boys: add both parents heights in inches, add 5, and divide by 2. For girls: add both parents heights, subtract 5, and divide by 2. This gives the mid-parental height estimate. Most children will fall within 2 inches of this prediction.
At what age do children stop growing?
Girls typically reach their full adult height by age 14-16, about 2 years after the start of menstruation. Boys usually stop growing by age 16-18. Some boys continue to grow slowly until age 20-21. Growth plates fuse at different rates based on hormones and genetics.