While every child is unlike, and has distinctive physical features, key differences could be suggestive of poor health. Evaluating a growth chart is usually part of a ordinary check up. 

A dissimilar growth chart must be used when examining girls instead of boys, since the rates and patterns of growth between genders are extremely different.

There are 2 sets of charts that are used right the way through a youth’s life, first a growth chart started from infancy until 36 months, then a further growth chart is used from 2 years to 20 years of age. The growth chart shows the heights and weights of many different children across the country, according to age. It is recommended to go by a doctor’s accurate growth size, as home measurements taken are often imprecise and can lead to the wrong conclusions.

For children of ages 0 to 36 months, a growth chart usually includes his or her height, weight and the head perimeter. These measurements are then considered according to the child’s age and the nationwide average. For children age 2 to 20, the child’s physique and weight are calculated. Body mass index (BMI) is also taken in older children as a way of measuring levels of body fat. 

Just because a child is gaining weight does not automatically mean there is a vital issue. For example during puberty a child’s body-fat increases. That’s why it’s best for a doctor to analyze a growth chart. He or she is better trained to establish if there is a serious problem that needs consideration. Your child’s doctor will regularly refer to the growth chart to assess your child’s physical progress.

Although a growth chart is a helpful instrument in monitoring a child’s health, neither doctors nor parents should be too quick to label a reading as a specific problem. The data should be measured a trend to monitor, and relative to other physical symptoms and analyses.

Some companies or clinics offer a free growth chart along with a brochure listing their services, while some websites include a virtual growth card that is viewable online. While these charts might be good to consult for educational purposes they are not a substitute for a doctor’s regular check up, nor can they replace a professional examination of a growth chart. 

When your child’s health is the concern always consult a doctor when in doubt and never go words on a comnputer or in a brochure. Although a growth chart is a good gauge of your child’s development it is only a instrument. 

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