The ideal percentile for your child

Even if there is a change in your child’s growth pattern, this by no means indicates a problem. A growth chart is not your pediatrician’s sole diagnostic tool— it is a springboard for further discussion or investigation. “The information on the growth charts provides an opportunity to talk about the pediatrician’s expectations for a child’s growth,” says Wolfson. “For instance, if a child’s height curve is fl at compared to the weight curve, I’ll discuss nutrition and getting the child outside to play more with the parents.”

Pediatricians use the growth charts to help evaluate the big picture, including what part environment and genetics play in a child’s developmental milestones. “A parent may say, ‘My child is too small—he’s in the 3rd percentile,’” says Parker. “But we [pediatricians] look at genetics, and if the parents are small, the 3rd percentile may be normal for that child.” Same with the 99th percentile or the 1st—somebody has to be the tallest or the smallest.

It’s the rate of growth that’s important. If your child is growing on track and according to your pediatrician’s expectations, there’s nothing to worry about. “If genetics dictate that your child is supposed to be in the 25th percentile, for example, then we want him to continue to grow at that rate,” maintains Parker. “The ideal percentile is what is ideal for your child.”

Help your child grow

Your child’s growth pattern is largely determined by genetics. “Assuming your child is growing normally, we can predict how tall he’ll be at age 20 using the growth charts,” says Katrina Parker, M.D., director of pediatric endocrinology at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. For instance, a 2-yearold boy who is 37 inches tall is forecast to be six-foot-two by the time he’s 20, if he continues to follow the 95th percentile curve on the CDC’s growth charts.

A 2-year-old girl who is 34 inches tall is estimated to be about five-foot-four by the time she’s 20 if she continues to follow the 50th percentile curve. “But things can change,” she confirms. “Nutrition, exercise, diseases and medical treatment can all affect growth.” Your child’s growth depends on a healthy diet, regular physical activity and good sleeping habits, so make sure your child gets enough of each. Remember, too, that pushing extra food or exercise will not boost the height of a child who is genetically predisposed to be short. “Your focus should be on healthy habits,” urges Parker. “We can’t all be basketball players.”

Nancy Gottesman’s 13-year-old son, Robby, is now five-foot-nine—four inches taller than she is. He weighs 140 pounds, which is her goal weight.

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN TODDLER MAGAZINE, HOLIDAY ‘08