Mid-parental height (MPH) calculator is an online tool based off a formula devised to estimate the potential adult height of a child based on the heights of their parents.
How to Use the Mid-Parental Height Calculator
Step 1: Measurements
To begin, you will need:
- The mother’s height
- The father’s height
Ensure that these measurements are accurate, and in inches or cm.
Step 2: Fill out the Calculator Fields
Input both the mothers and fathers’ height and click, calculate.
Step 3: Results
The result will give you an estimate of the child’s potential adult height. This is an estimation, and the actual adult height may vary.
Step 5: Understand the Error Rate
Consider a range rather than an exact height, as there’s an error rate associated with the MPH. The typical error rate for the mid-parental method is ±10 cm or ±4 inches. Additionally, about 6% of children may fall outside this range.
Why Use the Mid-Parental Height Calculator?
The MPH calculator helps parents and health experts find a starting point when tracking height. Additionally, understanding the most likely height your child might reach can be reassuring.
Limitations and Other Factors
The mid-parental height calculator is a tool for approximation, and all outcomes should be viewed as estimates.
The calculator does not consider factors outside the parent’s height and is based off statistic data relating to parent-child heights. There are many different factors that can influence a child’s adult height, including nutrition, genetics, health, sleep patterns, and illness.
Any results or questions you have should be discussed with a pediatrician.
References
- Braziuniene I, Wilson TA, Lane AH. Accuracy of self-reported height measurements in parents and its effect on mid-parental target height calculation. BMC Endocr Disord. 2007 Apr 2;7:2. doi: 10.1186/1472-6823-7-2. PMID: 17407570; PMCID: PMC1852563.
- Tanner JM, Goldstein H, Whitehouse RH. Standards for children’s height at ages 2-9 years allowing for heights of parents. Arch Dis Child. 1970 Dec;45(244):755-62. doi: 10.1136/adc.45.244.755. PMID: 5491878; PMCID: PMC1647404.