Measuring growth is part of standard, routine paediatric clinical practice. Regular growth assessments make it easier to recognise an abnormal growth trajectory and identify children who are at risk of developing overweight and obesity. Serial measurements also normalise growth monitoring and provide an opportunity to discuss growth charts and healthy growth with the family in a standardised, non-stigmatising way.[10] [23]
It is recommended that weight, length/height and BMI are measured, assessed and reviewed at least yearly[24] in addition to the key milestone growth reviews in the Personal Health Record during the first two years of life. Growth should be monitored until age 18 years.[25]
Using percentile charts to measure growth and monitor change
Growth status in children and adolescents (age 0-18 years old) is assessed using age- and sex- specific reference values, as the appropriate ratio of weight to height varies during development. Measuring growth should always be contextualised to a child’s clinical condition.
- For children 0-2 years, use WHO growth charts (calculate weight, length and weight for length for age) Using the BMI-for-age growth chart is not recommended for children younger than age 2 years.
- For children 2-18 years, use CDC growth charts** (calculate BMI-for-age, weight and height for age).[26]
- Link to Growth Charts
**Queensland Health use WHO chart for children 0-2 years and CDC growth charts for children 2-18 years of age